First reading is the first stage of a bill's passage through the House of Lords. This stage is usually a formality, and takes place without a debate. During first reading, the long title (indicating ...

The Public Bill Committee will meet for the first time on Tuesday 24 June 2025 to scrutinise the Bus Services (No.2) Bill line by line. and is expected to report by 5.00pm on Tues ...

Questions The Lords returns from recess on Monday 2 June to press the government on the BBC World Service, competitiveness of English farmers with neighbouring countries, promotion of convenience ...

MPs and Members of the Lords sit in the two Chambers of Parliament scrutinising the Government and debating legislation. Find Members of Parliament (MPs) by postcode and constituency, and Members of ...

Here is an overview of debates scheduled in the Commons Chamber over the coming week. Please note, this business was announced in the Commons Chamber by the Leader of the House of Commons, Penny ...

Most of the Scrutiny Unit's work involves producing analysis and briefing for committees and is not separately published. The Unit does however from time to time produce briefing notes on specialist ...

The Parliament and Constitution Centre provides a focus for the House of Commons Library's work on Parliament and the Constitution. Our primary objective is to provide Members and their staff with ...

A by-election does not have to take place if an MP changes political party. Until an election, an MP of the same party in a neighbouring constituency manages constituency matters. The Chief Whip of ...

UK residents and overseas visitors may watch debates for free on current issues or proposed new laws in both Houses by visiting the public galleries. The galleries are open to the public when the ...

Secondary legislation is usually concerned with detailed changes to the law made under powers from an existing Act of Parliament. Statutory instruments form the majority of secondary legislation but ...

MPs and Members of the Lords sit in the two Chambers of Parliament scrutinising the Government and debating legislation. Find Members of Parliament (MPs) by postcode and constituency, and Members of ...

Read transcripts of debates in both Houses.