First introduced to the House of Lords in December 2004, the Charities Bill failed to gain royal assent before parliament was dissolved for the general election.

Designed to overhaul and modernise the way the third sector operates, the Bill will include provisions for dealing with complaints, ensuring proper use of funds and safeguarding against abuses.

The Bill will provide a clear definition of charity, with an emphasis on public benefit.

It will also include a range of measures designed to enable charities to administer themselves more efficiently.

In addition, the Bill aims to improve the regulation of charity fundraising, and modernise the functions of the Charity Commission as a regulator, including increasing its accountability.

Extent of the Bill

This Bill applies to England & Wales. Sections of the Bill also apply to Scotland and Northern Ireland.

House of Lords

First reading: May 18 2005 (HL Bill 1)

Second reading: June 7 2005

Committee stage:

• 1st day: June 28 2005
• 2nd day: July 12 2005
• The Bill as amended - HL Bill 16

Report stage:

• 1st day: October 12 2005
• 2nd day: October 18 2005

Third reading: November 8 2005

House of Commons

First reading: November 9 2005 (HC Bill 83)

Second reading: June 26 2006

Standing Committee A:

• 1st sitting: July 4 2006 (am)
• 2nd sitting: July 4 2006 (pm)
• 3rd sitting: July 6 2006 (am)
• 4th sitting: July 6 2006 (pm)
• 5th sitting: July 11 2006 (am)
• 6th sitting: July 11 2006 - I (pm)
• 6th sitting: July 11 2006 - II (pm)
• 7th sitting: July 13 2006 (am)
• 8th sitting: July 13 2006 (pm)
• Bill as amended: HC Bill 213

Remaining stages: October 25 2006

House of Lords

Consideration of Commons amendments: November 7 2006

Royal Assent: November 8 2006