SUB-COMMITTEES
Why the Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022 may prove to be so important
T
he Dissolution And Calling Of Parliament Bill Act 2022 received royal assent today (24 March 2022). It repeals the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 (the “2011 Act”). It makes express provision to make the prerogative powers to dissolve Parliament and to call a new Parliament exercisable again, as if the 2011 Act had never been enacted. As a result, a future Parliament will be dissolved by the Sovereign, on the request of the Prime Minister, as it was prior to the enactment of the 2011 Act. What this means is that whilst the electorate expect a general election to take place on 2 May 2024, the Government (via the Prime Minister – technically at the request of the Queen) will now have the power to call a General Election at a time of their choosing within the life of Parliament.
spike in inflation), then the PM may call an early election if he felt confident that he will hold, or increase, the current majority. However, as the Chancellor of the Exchequer yesterday pledged to reduce income tax “before the next election”, this may indicate the plan remains to have a general election in 2024. Now that the Government can keep the opposition guessing, as they now have the power to call a General Election at a time of their own choosing.
Philip Henson
The Law Reform Committee Partner, EBL Miller Rosenfalck
In politics timing is always key, and few questions are more important than that of the timing of a general election. So if there were a great success in domestic or foreign policy – or before the impact of any potential negative matters (such as a large
Membership Benefits Representing the 20,000 solicitors across Westminster, Holborn and Central London There are many benefits to joining the Westminster and Holborn Law Society: Y ou will be part of a welcoming, diverse and vibrant law society with links to, and events with, regional and international legal organisations. You will have opportunities to meet and network with lawyers from other bar associations and legal organisations across London, throughout Europe and around the world. Our Society is twinned with numerous foreign bars, including the Paris, Berlin, Milan, Barcelona and Palermo bar associations. We also have strong relations with many other bar associations around the globe. You will be able to attend most of our fantastic professional development and social events for free. Recent highlights include a black-tie dinner held at the National Liberal Club in conjunction with the International Association of Lawyers and a festive Holiday Party at Middle Temple Hall. You will get a free subscription to our Society's quarterly magazine, Central London Lawyer, helping to keep you informed about the latest legal developments and providing you with the opportunity to write articles showcasing your legal expertise.
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