Private Bill - Project Open Gov

A bill that would change the law for specific individuals, organisations or localities rather than the general public.

Also used as: private bill, private bills, private legislation

Source / explainer: Read UK Parliament information on private bills

Last reviewed: 21 August 2026

A Private Bill is a bill that would change the law for specific individuals, organisations or localities rather than for the general public. Those specially affected may be able to petition Parliament against it. Private bills are different from Private Members’ Bills, which are public bills introduced by MPs or peers who are not ministers.

Related terms

BillA proposed law that must pass through Parliament before it can become an Act.Hybrid BillA public bill that affects certain people or bodies in a particular way beyond the general public.PetitionA formal request asking Parliament or one of its Houses to take action or consider an issue.PetitionerA person or body that submits a petition to Parliament.Public BillA bill that would change the law as it applies to the general public.