Labour International Conference Motion 2024 on

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR OVERSEAS CONSTITUENCIES

Conference notes:

In 2021 approximately 5.5 million Britons lived overseas.

In 2024 Britons living abroad more than 15 years regained the right to vote in Parliamentary elections, a right afforded to most major democracies.

In 2024, 2 million citizens were re-enfranchised by the abolition of the 15-year rule, which boosted electoral democracy only to be compromised as large numbers of postal votes were incorrectly, or not dispatched; in addition, legitimate Proxy Voters were denied the ability to vote.

After 5 July 2024, 335 new MPs, who took office for the first time following the State opening of Parliament, 17 July 2024, will be obliged to represent constituents living abroad but are not equipped with the necessary resources.

British citizens living abroad have more in common with each other/common concerns among them than with constituencies in which they previously lived.

Conference therefore resolves:

To consult with Labour’s Sister Parties in countries with overseas constituencies to gain knowledge and understanding of how such a democratic right can be developed for Britons.

To coordinate with the Labour International CLP in developing a mechanism to ensure Parliamentary representation for 5.5 million citizens.

To establish a bipartisan, cross-party consultation body to develop legislation to restore this democratic right.

To ensure a Labour government commits to introducing legislation to give British citizens the same democratic voice as homeland residents in matters that affect them.

233 words

Approved at a quorate meeting of the Labour International General Committee on 18 July 2024