Parliament Preparing for General Election
Parliament is wrapping up its final business ahead of the general election, following the announcement that the country would go to the polls on 4 July.
Current Activities in Parliament
The Commons is currently in the middle of a process known as “wash-up”. This term refers to the last few days of a Parliament before dissolution. Any business that is not finalized before the prorogation expected on Friday will be lost in its current form.
Legislation Updates
Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt has laid out the legislation MPs will get the chance to look at again before the Commons is prorogued. The Finance Bill, the Digital Markets Bill, and Post Office Horizon Offences Bill will all get time in the Commons. The Victims and Prisoners Bill, including mechanisms to compensate people impacted by scandals, will be put before MPs.
Prorogation and Dissolution
Parliament is due to be prorogued on Friday 24 May, and dissolution is expected six days later on Thursday 30 May. Prorogation marks the end of a parliamentary session, while dissolution is the moment that all MPs lose their seats.
Impact on Ministers and Government
Ministers keep their jobs during an election campaign. The government machinery continues to operate, allowing ministers to respond to emergencies. In the event of a crisis, the government can still react and involve the leader of the opposition if necessary.
Ministers retain their responsibilities until they are replaced by a new government. The continuity of government ensures that essential functions are maintained throughout the election period.
