House Commons

• The Representation of the People Bill 2024-26 proposes lowering the voting age to 16 for all elections and introducing automated electoral registration. • To increase voter turnout, the bill aims to move the postal vote application deadline in Great Britain three days earlier, providing more time for ballots to be returned. • Part 4 of the legislation tightens rules regarding donations from companies, limited liability partnerships, and unincorporated associations to prevent foreign influence in UK politics.

• Viktor Orbán lost his position as Prime Minister in the April 2026 Hungarian parliamentary elections, ending a 16-year tenure in power. • The election saw significant international involvement, with US President Donald Trump endorsing Orbán and Vice President JD Vance visiting Hungary to criticize EU interference. • Opposing parties, including Magyar and Tisza, campaigned on platforms to combat corruption and "state-capture" orchestrated by Orbán and the Fidesz party.

• The House of Commons Library has released updated GDP international comparisons to measure the size and growth of the UK economy. • The report provides the latest GDP growth data for the UK and offers direct performance benchmarks against other G7 economies. • These indicators are critical for policymakers to assess the UK's relative economic competitiveness and overall financial health on a global scale.