Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Update: Strengthening Democracy

24 March 2020 · Cabinet Office

Proposed by Chloe Smith Con Norwich North

Democracy & Elections

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The Government is considering primary legislation to keep 650 parliamentary constituencies instead of reducing to 600.
  • Adjusting the boundary review cycle to every eight years is under consideration.
  • Implementing Boundary Commission recommendations automatically through an Order in Council is proposed.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the need for updated UK Parliamentary boundaries and outlines the government's policy intent regarding electoral reforms.

Action requested

The Government is considering bringing forward primary legislation to maintain 650 parliamentary constituencies instead of reducing them to 600, adjusting the boundary review cycle to every eight years, and implementing Boundary Commission recommendations automatically through an Order in Council.

Key facts

  • The current number of UK Parliamentary constituencies is 650.
  • Legislation requires a reduction to 600 constituencies by November 30, 2020.
  • The Government proposes maintaining the number at 650.
  • Boundary reviews would occur every eight years instead of five.
  • Automatic implementation of Boundary Commission recommendations through Order in Council is proposed.
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