Explanatory Memoranda
Selected letter
E
Explanatory memoranda are provided by the relevant government department with all instruments subject to procedure. They provide a clear explanation of what part of the law the instrument is changing and why.
- About Parliament: Secondary legislation
- Related glossary term: statutory instruments
- UK statutory instruments (external site)
Explanatory memoranda must be issued by the UK Government to accompany each EU document within 10 days of its deposit in Parliament. The memorandum describes the general effect of the EU document, its financial, legal and policy implications, and whether the document is awaiting further consideration by other European Community bodies.
- Research Briefing: The European Union - a guide to terminology, procedures and sources
- Cabinet Office: European explanatory memoranda [external site]