Is an MP who has been elected by other MP's to act as Chair during debates in the House of Commons
Ensure that rules are observed and order is maintained in the Chamber
What do Ministers do?
Appointed by Prime Minister
Each MP are given a specific area of government policy to oversee
They speak on behalf of the government from the frontbenches during parliamentary debates
They must answer questions put to them by other MPs.
What are Government Benches?
The government benches refer to the seating area in a legislative assembly where members of the ruling party or coalition sit.
Government sit to the right of the Speaker
What is the national government responsible for?
Developing and implementing policy
Drafting laws
What are the Opposition Benches?
The seating area in a legislative chamber where members of the opposition party sit. They sit opposite the government
What are Serjeant at arms?
responsible for security and keeping order within the commons section of Parliament
They carry the commons mace during the Speaker's procession before each day's sitting
What is the Clerk?
Principal constitutional adviser to the Commons - manages the contract and leases regarding the property of the House of Commons
Representation
MPs represent their constituents, they also represent a range of knowledge, backgrounds and political parties
Debate
MPs can debate issues arising for the country and time is allocated for the Oppositions parties to debate issues of their choosing
Scrutiny
MPs can hold the government account through Prime Ministers Questions and Ministerial Questions offer the opportunity to check and challenge the government's policies.
There are opportunities for the opposition and backbench MPs to put forward topics for debates - useful opportunity for scrutiny
Urgent Questions
Can be put forward on a daily basis in response to current affairs.