European Convention on Human Rights (Temporary Withdrawal) Bill

A Bill to make provision for the temporary withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Convention on Human Rights.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

2 May 2012

In Plain English

AI-generated

The European Convention on Human Rights (Temporary Withdrawal) Bill would allow the UK to suspend its obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights for a defined period. It aims to spell out how rights protections would operate while outside the ECHR and how the UK would rejoin once the period ends, with Parliament overseeing the process. The Bill does not abolish human rights protections entirely, but changes how they apply during the withdrawal.

Key Points

Authorises a temporary withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights for a defined period with a clear process to rejoin.
Sets out how rights protections would operate domestically during withdrawal and how ECHR rights would be reflected or replaced in UK law.
Requires Parliamentary oversight, including approval for withdrawal and rejoining, and regular reporting during the period.
Provides transitional safeguards to protect individuals during withdrawal and minimise disruption to rights.
Outlines steps for re-engagement with the ECHR and a timeline for returning to full compliance after the withdrawal ends.

Progress

The Bill is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons, where MPs will debate its general principles. If the principles are agreed, it will move on to more detailed scrutiny in later stages.

Who is affected?

UK residents and their familiesPeople who rely on ECHR rights (e.g., asylum seekers, victims of crime, families affected by rights decisions)Public authorities implementing rights (police, courts, local authorities, NHS)Lawyers, charities, and human rights organisationsParliament and government agencies involved in oversight and administration of rights protections

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - European Convention on Human Rights (Temporary Withdrawal)

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

European Convention on Human Rights (Temporary Withdrawal) Bill | TrackPolitics