Hybrid Bills mix the characteristics of Public and Private Bills. The changes to the law proposed by a Hybrid Bill would affect the general public but would also have a significant impact for specific individuals or groups. The Bills passed concerning the construction of the Channel Tunnel is an example of a Hybrid Bill.
Channel Tunnel and Crossrail Bills
Hybrid Bills often propose works of national importance but in a specific area of the UK. Examples would be the Channel Tunnel Bills passed in the 1970s and 1980s that affected the South East of the UK, and the Crossrail Bill to build a new east to west rail link through central London passed in 2008.
Who decides what is a Hybrid Bill?
The Public Bill Offices decide whether a Bill falls into the Hybrid category. Both Houses debate these Bills and they go through a longer parliamentary process than Public Bills.
Petitioning against Hybrid Bills
Opponents to Hybrid Bills may submit petitions and certain individuals and groups can state their case before a select committee.