Parliament isn't just some big old building by the Thames
Parliament makes laws, debates issues of the day, represents the views of people across
the UK and checks and challenges the work of the Government
Wait a minute, Parliament isn't the same as the Government?
It's the Government that takes a leading role in running of the country, but there is also
a bigger picture...
So, there's The House of Commons -- that's where the Government sits, along with the
opposition (who sits opposite them... of course).
This is the elected Chamber and it's made up of MPs who represent all 650 UK constituencies
Then there's the House of Lords, made up mostly of Life peers, who are appointed for their
knowledge and experience.
There is no political party with overall control in the Lords and many of its members - the
crossbenchers and the bishops - are non-party political.
Finally there's the Monarch, her role is mainly ceremonial these days -- but she does still
sign every new law
So what does Parliament do all day?
Inside the debating chambers the big issues are discussed, new laws agreed and the Prime
Minister is questioned...
...While a host of committees, made up of small groups of Parliamentarians, scrutinize
the work of Government Departments, check the details of new laws and ask experts and
the public (that's you) for ideas and evidence to shape their enquiries.
Representing the people, passing laws, debating issues and checking and challenging the work
of the Government -- it's all in a day's work for Parliament.