Civil Officers Act 2020

14 Max. c. 2

An Act to make provision regarding the tenure of office of certain public officers, and for the performance of the functions of their offices during the vacancy thereof.

[4 August 2020]

Be it enacted by the King’s most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:

1. Definition of “civil office”

In this Act, “civil office” means any public office (whether existing at common law, established by His Majesty’s royal prerogative, or established by or under an Act of Parliament) the holder of which is to be appointed by His Majesty, other than a judicial office within section 2 of chapter III of the Constitution or an office in His Majesty’s armed forces.

2. Tenure of civil officers

Unless it is otherwise provided by or under an Act of Parliament, the holder of a civil office—

(a) shall hold office during His Majesty’s pleasure; and

(b) may at any time resign that office by giving to His Majesty notice in writing to that effect.

3. Vacancy of civil offices

During the vacancy of a civil office, the functions of that office shall be performed by His Majesty or such other officer or person as he may appoint.

4. Short title

This Act may be cited as the Civil Officers Act 2020.