First Reading - Project Open Gov

The formal introduction of a bill in a House, normally without debate on its substance.

Also used as: first reading, First Reading debate, introduction of a bill

Source / explainer: Read the UK Parliament bill process explainer

Last reviewed: 21 August 2026

First Reading is the formal introduction of a bill in the House of Commons or House of Lords. It is usually a procedural stage, with the bill’s title read out and the bill ordered to be printed. The main debate on the bill’s principles normally comes later at Second Reading.

Related terms

BillA proposed law that must pass through Parliament before it can become an Act.Committee StageThe stage where a bill is examined in detail and amendments can be considered line by line.Second ReadingThe stage where Parliament debates the main principles and purpose of a bill.Third ReadingThe final stage in one House, where members debate the bill in its near-final form.