If you’ve already braced yourself for a potential May general election, get ready for a “Super Thursday” where the British public will vote for their next government and whether Britain should leave the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on the same day. The ECHR has been a contentious issue for the Conservatives, with recent warnings from the court about human rights law violations.
There are calls from some Conservative figures to leave the ECHR, citing public support for such a move. However, if the UK were to exit the ECHR, it would join only Belarus and Russia in doing so.
Reports suggest a plan for a joint referendum-and-election day, led by ex-Tory Party deputy chairman, to prevent a potential Tory electoral defeat. The proposal aims to secure support from the Reform voter base, which is likely to back leaving the ECHR.
However, the likelihood of this plan coming to fruition depends on parliamentary approval, which may face challenges within the Conservative Party. The Tory Reform Group, representing a significant number of Conservative MPs and voters, has expressed opposition to leaving the ECHR.
Considering the legislative process and historical timelines, it appears improbable that a double ballot will be implemented before the next general election deadline in January 2025. Combining elections has been a topic of debate, with considerations of advantages and disadvantages in each case.
Given the complexities and timeframes involved, the prospect of a simultaneous referendum and election remains uncertain. The Commission’s Referendums Reference Group has highlighted the usual argument against combining elections.
In conclusion, while the idea of a joint referendum-and-election day has been proposed, the practicalities and political dynamics suggest that such an eventuality may not materialize before the next general election deadline. The debate surrounding the ECHR and electoral strategies will continue to shape the political landscape in the UK.
