Parliament is the central institution of a democracy and its workings are at the heart of political life. It consists of two Houses, the Commons and the Lords and it is through them that decisions are made about the laws of the land. Parliaments are not merely consultative or representative; they are deliberative. They have the ability to make laws and to sanction governments. They can also be a force for progressive change, but this is largely down to determined and informed pressure from within (via political parties) and from outside (from civil society organisations).
One of Parliament’s main functions is scrutiny of the government. This is done through select committees which mirror the work of government departments and often have a specific policy focus; through questioning ministers and other senior officials; and by the publication of reports. Some believe select committees are becoming more independent, although many still have a high degree of influence from the governing party.
Another way in which Parliament holds the government to account is through the ultimate sanction, a vote of no-confidence which can lead to the government resigning or to a General Election being called. In addition, MPs are free to express their views on any issue in the House of Commons and can challenge government ministers during the regular departmental questions sessions and the high profile Prime Minister’s Questions session.
The broadcast of plenary proceedings on television and radio or, more recently, online is a popular way for citizens to see how their parliament operates. This is especially true in countries that have recently transitioned to democracy and can provide an important window into the world of politics for those who cannot travel or are unable to access information about their own parliaments.