Bill · started in the Commons

Local Government Reorganisation (Requirement for Referendum) Bill

A Bill to provide that any reorganisation of local government in England involving changes to electoral boundaries, the establishment of combined authorities, or other specified changes may not be undertaken unless such reorganisation has been approved by a simple majority of residents of any affected local government area voting in a referendum; to make provision about the organisation of such referendums; and for connected purposes.

The story so farThe Local Government Reorganisation (Requirement for Referendum) Bill was introduced in the House of Commons on 28 January 2026 by Mr Peter Bedford (Conservative). It is now at second reading in the House of Commons. Second reading is the first debate on the overall principle of the bill; if the bill clears it, detailed committee scrutiny follows.

Sponsor

• Mr Peter Bedford Conservative Primary sponsor

Progress through Parliament

Source: the official bill page. Last updated 5 May 2026.