National Debt Cap Bill | TrackPolitics

National Debt Cap Bill

A Bill to set a legal cap on the amount of outstanding net Government debt as a percentage of gross domestic product; and for connected purposes

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

12 January 2012

In Plain English

AI-generated

The National Debt Cap Bill would create a legal ceiling on the government's net debt as a percentage of GDP. It would require borrowing and budgeting to stay within that cap, with provisions for related matters to be addressed as part of the bill.

Key Points

Establishes a legal cap on outstanding net government debt as a percentage of GDP.
Applies to the central government’s debt and includes provisions for connected purposes to form part of the cap.
Aims to constrain borrowing and guide long-term fiscal policy.
Includes mechanisms for transparency and reporting on debt levels and compliance to Parliament.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to committee for detailed scrutiny and amendments.

Who is affected?

Taxpayers and householdsCentral and local government and the provision of public servicesPublic sector workersFinancial markets and investorsBusinesses that rely on government spending and policyFuture generations

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - National Debt Cap

1 Jan 1970

The second reading was expected on 20 January 2012 but was withdrawn.

The Bill had its first reading on 12 July 2011 through the Ten Minute Rule.

If you require any further information about the Bill then please contact the sponsor Sajid Javid.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.