Which type of bill affects the entire population?

A public bill is designed to address issues that affect the whole population or a significant section of society. These bills are usually introduced by government ministers and are intended to bring about substantial change in laws that govern public policy, social issues, and the economy. The legislative process for public bills typically includes multiple readings and debates in both Houses of Parliament, providing an opportunity for extensive scrutiny and input from various stakeholders.

In contrast, a private bill affects only a specific group of individuals or a locality rather than the general public, making it narrower in scope. A hybrid bill contains elements of both public and private bills, meaning it might affect the general public but could also target specific entities, such as local authorities or private corporations. A Private Members Bill is introduced by a member of Parliament who is not part of the government; while these can cover public issues, they do not represent the government’s formal policy and their chances of becoming law are generally lower.

Understanding the nature and scope of different types of bills is crucial in public affairs, as it shapes how legislation is proposed and the impact it will have on society at large.