ABSTRACT

Although Parliament is constantly in the news and televised daily, much of its work remains a mystery to outsiders and is sometimes perplexing even to its own members. This book provides a unique insight into the work and daily life of Parliament. It sets out plainly and intelligibly what goes on and why things happen, but it also analyses the pressures within the institution, its strengths and weaknesses, and ways in which it might change.

Covering every aspect of the work, membership, and structures of both Houses, this book also reflects the profound changes that have taken place in Parliament over the years.

 

chapter 1|20 pages

Parliament: its home and origins

chapter 2|23 pages

Who is in Parliament?

chapter 3|35 pages

Running Parliament

chapter 5|44 pages

Influences on Parliament

chapter 7|76 pages

Making the law

chapter 8|22 pages

Parliament and the taxpayer

chapter 9|24 pages

Debates

chapter 10|33 pages

Calling to account: questions

chapter 11|42 pages

Calling to account: select committees

chapter 12|20 pages

Parliament and Europe

chapter 13|40 pages

The future of Parliament