Understanding bill stages

A bill is a proposal for a new law or a change to the law. It can start in either the House of Commons or the House of Lords. Both Houses need to agree the bill before it can receive Royal Assent.

First reading

The bill is formally presented. There is no debate at this stage.

Second reading

Members debate the bill's main purpose and principles. The House decides whether it should continue.

Committee stage

The bill is examined in more detail. Members consider its clauses and may propose amendments.

Report stage

The House considers the committee's work and may consider further amendments.

Third reading

The House considers the bill in its final form and decides whether to agree it.

Consideration by the other House

The bill then goes to the other House, where it is considered through its own stages. The first House is asked to consider amendments made by the second. Both Houses must agree before the bill can receive Royal Assent.

Royal Assent

Royal Assent is the formal step after both Houses agree the bill. The bill then becomes an Act of Parliament.

The process can differ between the Commons and Lords and may vary by bill. Read the UK Parliament's Bill stages overview for the official explanation. The guide to bill stages in the Lords explains some differences between the Houses.

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