Website of the UK government

Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

The wide-ranging debate aims to provide the opportunity to consider all the arguments for and against a Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.

The discussions could lead to a significant constitutional development, with these rights and responsibilities drawn together in one place for the first time.

Among the responsibilities being considered for any possible Bill of Rights and Responsibilities are:

• obeying the law, reporting crimes and co-operating with prosecution agencies
• paying taxes
  
• taking part in civic society through voting and jury service
  
• treating NHS and other public sector staff with respect
  
• safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of children in our care
  
• living within our environmental limits

Justice Secretary Jack Straw, said: "In difficult times, people need to know that their fundamental rights and freedoms are protected, whatever happens in the world around them, and that others will behave responsibly towards them.

"We believe it is important that people know their rights and their responsibilities. That common knowledge helps bind us together as a nation.

"We also believe that there could be merit in bringing together rights such as free health care, victims’ rights and equality, which are currently scattered across the UK's legal and political landscape."

The full details of Rights and Responsibilities: developing our constitutional framework can be found by following the link below.

• Ministry of Justice policy reports Opens new window

• Ministry of Justice Opens new window