British Politics For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 13

Britain’s Parliamentary Democracy

In This Chapter

Exploring parliament – the Houses of Commons and Lords

Looking at the jobs of MPs and peers

Following the passage of government and private members’ bills

Putting Commons committees under scrutiny

Ascending to the top of government

In this chapter I explore the inner workings of Britain’s parliamentary democracy, peeking behind the oak-panelled doors of the Palace of Westminster to see where the real power lies in the UK.

Honouring the Mother of Parliaments

The UK parliament is often referred to as the ‘mother of parliaments’ as a result of its long history and because people around the globe have copied and admired its traditions and approach to the execution of democracy.

Even the building that the UK parliament sits in shouts out history, power and tradition. The Palace of Westminster is recognised as a gothic masterpiece, with its stained glass, medieval timbers and, of course, iconic Big Ben – read more about this ...