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Update on the EU (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill

23 January 2020

Proposing MP
Surrey Heath
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The UK Government is seeking legislative consent for the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill from the devolved legislatures of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland despite their refusal to agree a legislative consent motion.

Action Requested

The Government will proceed with the bill in line with the Sewel Convention due to the unique circumstances of leaving the EU following the 2016 referendum. It remains committed to respecting and upholding the devolution settlements and continuing engagement with the devolved administrations.

Key Facts

  • The UK is set to leave the European Union on January 31, 2020.
  • The Government seeks legislative consent for the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
  • Despite their refusal, the UK Government will take the bill to Royal Assent without devolved consent due to unique circumstances of leaving the EU post-referendum.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy