Private Member’s bill

A non-minister proposing a bill is referred to as a Private Member’s bill. This type of bill is introduced by a Member of Parliament (MP) who is not a part of the government or a minister. Private Member’s bills provide an opportunity for individual MPs to present legislation and contribute to the law-making process.

Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:

Introduction to Private Member’s bill:
A Private Member’s bill is a legislative proposal introduced by an individual MP who is not a part of the government. These bills are also known as backbench bills because they are typically introduced by MPs who sit on the backbenches in the parliament. Private Member’s bills are an important aspect of the legislative process in many parliamentary systems, including countries such as the United Kingdom, India, Canada, and Australia.

Process of introducing a Private Member’s bill:
The process of introducing a Private Member’s bill varies slightly in different parliamentary systems. However, the general procedure is as follows:

1. Notice of Motion: The MP who wishes to introduce the bill must give notice of their intention to do so. This involves informing the parliament in advance of the bill's content and purpose.

2. Ballot: In some systems, where the number of Private Member’s bills is limited, a ballot is held to determine which MPs will have the opportunity to present their bills. This ensures fairness and equal opportunity among MPs.

3. First Reading: Once a bill is selected or the allotted time for presenting bills arrives, the MP formally introduces the bill to the parliament. This is known as the first reading. During this stage, the bill's title and main objectives are announced, but there is no debate or discussion.

4. Second Reading: The second reading is a crucial stage where MPs have the opportunity to debate the bill's principles and content. This is followed by a vote, and if the bill passes, it moves on to the next stage.

5. Committee Stage: At this stage, the bill is examined in detail by a committee of MPs. They analyze each clause and schedule of the bill, propose amendments, and make recommendations.

6. Report Stage: After the committee stage, the bill returns to the parliament for the report stage. MPs can suggest further amendments and debate any remaining issues.

7. Third Reading: The third reading is the final opportunity for MPs to debate the bill. No further amendments can be proposed at this stage. After the debate, a vote is taken.

8. Consideration by Other House: If the bill is approved by the first house, it is sent to the second house (e.g., House of Lords in the UK) for consideration. The process of readings and debates is repeated in the second house.

9. Royal Assent: If both houses agree on the bill's content, it is sent to the monarch or the president for royal assent. Once royal assent is granted, the bill becomes law.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, when a non-minister proposes a bill, it is referred to as a Private Member’s bill. This type of bill allows individual MPs to present legislation and contribute to the law-making process. The process of introducing a Private Member’s bill involves several stages, including the first reading, second reading, committee stage, report stage, and third reading. Private Member’s bills play a significant role in shaping the legislative agenda and addressing important issues outside of government priorities.