Today, RSI submitted evidence to the JCHR, in which we argue that the Bill of Rights Bill should be scrapped.
- We have identified particular concerns regarding clauses 5, 7, 14-16 and 18, which would unduly and unjustly restrict everyone’s human rights whilst creating unaccountable powers. Each of these clauses will likely place the UK in breach of its international obligations, including under the European Convention on Human Rights.
- Clause 5 unjustly limits the scope of human rights protection in the UK based on irrelevant considerations that only benefit the government and public bodies, potentially exacerbating inequalities and creating impunity. Clause 5(2)(d) will also close down legal avenues available to victims of the period of conflict frequently referred to as ‘the Troubles’ who wish to challenge the government’s proposed sweeping amnesty for serious conflict-related crimes.
- Clause 18 limits a victim’s practical ability to enforce their human rights, while in many cases allowing public bodies to violate rights without suffering any penalty.
- Clause 14 removes the application of human rights laws to overseas military operations, meaning that the UK will leave civilians, service personnel and veterans without redress when the government violates their rights. This clause would also mean that the UK operates against international best practice when it comes to the application of human rights laws in this context.
- The Bill, if enacted, would also likely violate the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, placing the already fragile Northern Ireland peace process in jeopardy.
For more information, see the below briefing.
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