Parliament of the United Kingdom
The Parliament of the United Kingdom, often simply referred to as the UK Parliament, is the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom and its overseas territories. It is bicameral, consisting of two houses:
- House of Commons: This is the lower house where elected representatives, known as Members of Parliament (MPs), sit. Elections are held every five years or when a snap election is called.
- House of Lords: The upper house, composed of appointed and hereditary members. It acts as a revising chamber, reviewing legislation proposed by the Commons.
History
The origins of the Parliament of the United Kingdom can be traced back to the early medieval period:
- Model Parliament of 1295: Edward I summoned this assembly, which included representatives from counties, cities, and boroughs, laying the foundation for what would become the House of Commons.
- 14th Century: The concept of parliamentary consent to taxation developed, enhancing the power of Parliament.
- Glorious Revolution (1688): This event significantly increased the power of Parliament, particularly through the Bill of Rights 1689, which established certain constitutional principles and the supremacy of Parliament over the monarchy.
- Reform Acts: The Reform Act 1832 and subsequent reforms extended voting rights, modernizing the electoral system.
- 20th Century: The Parliament Act 1911 reduced the powers of the House of Lords, allowing the Commons to override the Lords in certain circumstances, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of parliamentary power.
Functions and Powers
The UK Parliament:
- Makes laws (legislation) through Acts of Parliament.
- Scrutinizes the work of the government.
- Approves taxation and public spending.
- Can hold the government to account through debates, questions, and committees.
- Represents the interests of the UK's constituents through elected MPs and appointed Lords.
Current Composition
As of the last update:
- The House of Commons has 650 members.
- The House of Lords has around 800 members, though this number can fluctuate due to life peerages and retirements.
Parliamentary Procedure
The UK Parliament follows complex procedures:
- First Reading: Bills are introduced without debate.
- Second Reading: The general principles of the bill are debated.
- Committee Stage: Detailed examination and amendments.
- Report Stage: Further amendments can be proposed.
- Third Reading: Final debate on the bill before it passes to the other house.
- Royal Assent: The bill becomes law after formal approval by the monarch.
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