How does the UK Parliament work?

UK Parliament

The United Kingdom has one of the oldest parliamentary systems in the world, and it plays a central role in how the country is governed. The UK  is a parliamentary democracy. This means that there are debates about certain decisions and legislative changes through representatives who have been either elected or appointed to the Parliament. Parliament is the main body responsible for making laws, checking the work of the government, and representing the people. It is based in Westminster, London, and follows a constitutional monarchy system, meaning that while the King is the head of state, political power is mainly exercised by elected representatives.

Who is the UK Parliament

The UK Parliament is the main law-making body of the country and brings together members from different political parties. It includes both elected representatives, known as Members of Parliament (MPs), and appointed members who contribute with their knowledge and experience. Parliament is divided into two chambers: the House of Commons, where MPs represent the public and introduce new laws, and the House of Lords, which reviews legislation and provides independent expertise. Together, the two houses work to create laws, question the government, and shape national policies.

House of Commons

MPs that work in the House of Commons are from varying parties and have been elected by locals in The House of Commons is made up of Members of Parliament (MPs) who are elected by the public in their local constituencies during general elections, which usually take place every five years. MPs are responsible for proposing and debating new laws, known as bills, and representing the interests of their areas. They also scrutinize government decisions and policies, providing different perspectives from across the country.

House of Lords?

Members of the House of Lords are not elected but are appointed for their expertise, experience, or previous public service. Their role is to review and revise proposed laws that come from the House of Commons, ensuring that legislation is carefully examined before becoming law. In addition, they hold the government to account by questioning its actions and contributing independent knowledge through debates and committees.

What are the Key Differences between House of Commons and House of Lords?

The House of Commons is made up of MPs who are directly elected by the public in their local areas, while the House of Lords consists of appointed and hereditary members who are chosen for their experience or expertise rather than through elections. The Commons has the main power in creating and passing new laws, and the government is formed from MPs in this chamber. The Lords, on the other hand, reviews and revises bills from the Commons, offering independent advice and holding the government to account, but it cannot block legislation permanently. When the House of Commons write a bill, they send it to the House of Lords. The House of Lords reviews and adds amendments to the bill and sends it back to the House of Commons, this is called the “ping pong system”.