2018 Boundary Review – second public consultation begins
The Boundary Commission for England (BCE) will once again be asking the public to help shape plans to change Parliamentary constituency boundaries as it opens its second consultation today (28 February).
Following a decision by Parliament to reduce the number of constituencies in the UK to 600 from 650, and to ensure that the number of electors in each constituency is equal, the BCE has been asked to make independent recommendations about where the boundaries of English constituencies should be.
An initial 12-week consultation was held in the autumn last year, giving the public the first chance to view and comment on the BCE’s plans. Almost 20,000 responses were received, which have now been published as part of the second consultation.
From today (28 February), you will be able to go to the BCE’s consultation website, www.bce2018.org.uk, to view the public comments we received during the first consultation. You had the chance to tell the BCE what you thought about their proposals in the first consultation; this is now your opportunity to say what you think about other suggestions made during that consultation. You can support counter-proposals, highlight issues with alternative ideas and say where you think BCE’s original proposals are still the best solution. You have until 27 March to have your say.
Sam Hartley, Secretary to the Boundary Commission for England, said:
“Public input is invaluable throughout the 2018 Boundary Review. Comments made during both consultations will help us develop a well-rounded picture of how local communities live and work together across the country. This local knowledge will be essential when we revise our proposals. Any changes will be based on your comments so it’s important to have your say.”
Following the second consultation, the BCE’s assistant commissioners will look through all comments received during both consultations, considering all the evidence submitted. They will then advise the Commission on where they think the proposals should be revised.
Revised proposals will be published as part of a final consultation in late 2017/early 2018 and any further changes made based on comments received. BCE must report to Parliament with its final recommendation in September 2018. If agreed by Parliament, the new constituencies will be in use at the next scheduled General Election in 2020.