Guides

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Acts of ParliamentDevolved GovernmentHouse of CommonsHouse of LordsLegislative ProcessWhitehallPolitical PartiesThe Political Process Display All
The Commons was nearly as deserted as this picture suggests. But not quite.

Recesses in the House of Commons

The House of Commons Recess is a phrase that is used to describe the period when the House of Commons is not sitting. Most MPs become notably prickly when it is suggested that a Parliamentary recess means that Members of Parliament are on holiday.Read More
Lord Bell, public relations executive, comments on the Bureau of Investigative Journalism lobbying sting operation

Register of Members Interests

The Register of Members Interests includes details of the staff or family members that an MP employs; any significant shareholdings or property income that they possess; gifts and donations that they have received; and details of the outside employment or Directorships that they undertake.Read More
Virus Outbreak Britain Politics

Report Stage

This Report Stage of a Bill occurs normally at least two weeks after the end of the committee stage of a Bill.Read More
Vince Cable arrives for Cabinet in the days before the vote. Some observers believe the aftermath of the AV vote could break the coalition. Photo: www.politicalpictures.co.uk

Reshuffle

When a Prime Minister rearranges Ministers, dismissing some and bringing in new blood, this is known as a government reshuffle. During a major government reshuffle, it is not uncommon for between a third and a half of government posts to change hands.Read More
The Queen's Speech sets the agenda for the year ahead

Royal Assent

Upon receiving its Royal Assent, a Bill then becomes an Act. Since 1952, Queen Elizabeth II has given Royal Assent to more than 3,650 Acts of Parliament.Read More