The Commission on a UK Bill of Rights has today published a second Consultation Paper.

The Commission is seeking further views from the public on whether or not we need a UK Bill of Rights, and if so, what the form and content of any such Bill might be.

Commenting on the release of the consultation paper, the Chair of the Commission Sir Leigh Lewis said:

'I am pleased that the Commission has today published this second Consultation Paper, in order that we can seek further views on the issues relating to a UK Bill of Rights.  With less than six months until we must make our recommendations we want to hear from as many individuals and interested parties as possible. This Consultation Paper offers a further opportunity for people and organisations to have their say and is part of a wider programme of consultation and engagement by the Commission.'

Read the Commission’s consultation paper

The deadline for responses is 30 September 2012.

Notes to editors:

1. The Commission on a Bill of Rights is an independent Commission established by the Government on 18 March 2011.
2. The Commission is chaired by Sir Leigh Lewis KCB. The Commission's members are: Professor Sir David Edward QC, Lord Faulks of Donnington QC, Jonathan Fisher QC, Martin Howe QC, Baroness Kennedy of The Shaws QC, Lord Lester of Herne Hill QC, Professor Philippe Sands QC and Anthony Speaight QC. The terms of reference for the Commission are:
   
   'The Commission will investigate the creation of a UK Bill of Rights that incorporates and builds on all our obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights, ensures that these rights continue to be enshrined in UK law, and protects and extend our liberties. It will examine the operation and implementation of these obligations, and consider ways to promote a better understanding of the true scope of these obligations and liberties. It should provide interim advice to the Government on the ongoing Interlaken process to reform the Strasbourg court ahead of and following the UK’s Chairmanship of the Council of Europe. It should consult, including with the public, judiciary and devolved administrations and legislatures, and aim to report no later than by the end of 2012.'
   
   
3. The Commission’s first Discussion Paper, Do we need a UK Bill of Rights? was published on 5 August 2011 and attracted over 900 responses. A copy of the Discussion Paper, the responses received and further details about the Commission’s work can be found on the Commission’s website.
   

For all media inquiries, contact Lisa Frascarelli on 020 3334 3540.

The Commission can be contacted at:

Commission on a Bill of Rights
Postpoint 9.55
102 Petty France
London
SW1H 9AJ
Tel: 020 3334 2486