The Retained EU Law (Revocation & Reform) Bill, (“Brexit Freedoms Bill”), was introduced in Parliament on 22 September 2022. This Framework Bill ends the special status of all retained EU law by 31 December 2023. It is anticipated that the Second Reading of the Bill will take place in the week commencing 24 October 2022.

On Wednesday 10 October 2022, the Civil Society Alliance hosted a webinar for civil society organisations and the general public to explore the implications of the Bill for existing rights and standards. There are serious concerns around the extensive powers the Bill, with limited consultation and Parliamentary scrutiny.

Our panel of experts shared their initial reactions and analysis of the Bill and you can watch the recording here.

Professor David Phinnemore, Queens University Belfast, explained the complexities of the Bill; the challenge to identify the EU legislation subject to its provisions; the arbitrary deadlines for sunset; the administrative burdens on Government departments; and the legal loopholes that are likely to ensue.
Ruth Chambers, Green Alliance highlighted the environmental protections at threat including around radioactivity in waste, pesticides in food, harm to wildlife, food and water supply.
Marley Morris, Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) addressed the potential impact of the Bill on workers’ rights and what that might mean for the non-regression clauses in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA).
Sam Willis, Public Law Project went through the detail of the Bill, highlighting examples of particular concern and exploring options for amendments.

Next steps
The Civil Society Alliance is working in partnership with our members and representatives from across civic society.
We would like to continue to provide regular updates on the progress of the Bill and welcome offers from speakers who would like to share their knowledge and expertise with our members. Please get in touch if you are able to help info@civilsocietyalliance.uk.