In this article we’re going to be looking at Parliament, its role as a law-making body and how the institution functions.

MPs have a very busy workload and can sometimes struggle to find work/life balance. Comments such as ‘overwhelming’, ‘devastating’ and ‘detrimental’ were commonly made by Members of the Class of 2010. It’s also worth noting that most of the time the House is in session – and this means MPs are often away from home.

The way in which the UK’s national parliament is structured means that each MP represents a specific constituency. This arrangement is said to make the Commons particularly responsive to local issues and concerns. This is reinforced by the fact that each MP runs an advice surgery where constituents can come to discuss local problems with their elected representative. Other opportunities include the daily departmental question sessions and the high profile ‘Prime Minister’s Questions’.

Parliament’s legislative function is carried out by the two houses of the national parliament, the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). The legislative process involves three sets of readings, the consideration of amendments in committee and the passing of the bill through both houses before it receives Royal Assent and becomes an Act of Parliament.

The way in which Parliament functions can seem complicated and opaque to average citizens. This is why it’s important that they have access to information about what is happening in their parliament and that they are given venues to provide feedback.