Government Bill

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A bill introduced by the Government rather than by an individual MP or peer.

Category: Parliamentary procedure

Also used as: government bills, government legislation

Source / explainer: Read the UK Parliament bill process explainer

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

A Government Bill is a proposed law introduced by ministers on behalf of the Government. Most major legislation is introduced this way, and Government Bills usually form part of the programme announced in the King’s Speech.

Related terms

BillA proposed law that must pass through Parliament before it can become an Act.King’s SpeechThe speech at the State Opening of Parliament setting out the government’s planned legislative programme.Programme MotionA motion that sets the timetable for a bill’s progress through the House of Commons.Second ReadingThe stage where Parliament debates the main principles and purpose of a bill.
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