Treaty scrutiny

In response to this inquiry by the International Agreements Committee, our evidence reviews the UK’s treaty scrutiny legal framework and practice under the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act (CRAG) and highlights certain weaknesses / limitations. The report advocates for reforms: granting Parliament full approval powers over treaties, expanding scrutiny to cover more treaty types and non-binding instruments, and improving transparency and public engagement. It also calls for stronger consultation mechanisms with devolved governments and civil society, addressing systemic barriers. Without reforms, the UK's treaty-making process risks undermining democratic accountability, transparency, and legitimacy.

View Evidence