Hybrid Instruments in United Kingdom

Hybrid Instruments Meaning, as used in the UK Parliament

Some statutory instruments (SIs) which need to be approved by both Houses (affirmative instruments) are ruled to be hybrid instruments because they affect some members of a group (be it individuals or bodies) more than others in the same group. Hybrid instruments are subject to a special procedure which gives those who are especially affected by them the opportunity to present their arguments against the SI to the Hybrid Instruments Committee and then, possibly, to a Select Committee charged with reporting on its merits. The hybrid instrument procedure is unique to the House of Lords and the process must be completed before the SI can be approved by both Houses.