Legislation

Parliament is responsible for approving new laws (legislation). The government introduces most plans for new laws, or changes to existing laws - but they can originate from an MP, Lord or even a member of the public or private group. Before they can become law, both the House of Commons and House of Lords must debate and vote on the proposals.

Bills normally introduce new laws. Bills that deal with more political or controversial issues usually begin in the Commons.

To become law the text of a Bill must be agreed by both Houses. Either House can vote down a Bill in which case it will normally not become law – but there are exceptions. The Commons can pass the same Bill in two successive years, in which case it can become law without the agreement of the Lords. Bills which are only about money (raising taxes or authorising government expenditure) are not opposed in the Lords and may only be delayed for a month.

The reigning monarch has to approve all new laws - called the Royal Assent - but this is a formality as in practice it is not withheld. Royal Assent was last withheld in 1708 when Queen Anne refused a Bill to settle the Militia in Scotland.

When a Bill is given Royal Assent it becomes an Act of Parliament. It is then the responsibility of the relevant government department to implement that law (eg, the Home Office will deal with new Acts relating to immigration).

Debates

Both Houses of Parliament hold debates in which Members discuss government policy, proposed new laws and current issues. 

Debates are designed to assist MPs and Lords to reach an informed decision on a subject. This decision is then often expressed in a vote (called a 'division'), for or against.Votes are often held to conclude a debate, which may involve then passing or rejecting a proposed new law (legislation) or simply registering their opinion on a subject. All debates are recorded in a publication called 'Hansard' which is available online or in print.

A similar system for debates applies across the Commons and Lords. Subjects are introduced as a proposal, or motion, by Members, then debated according to strict sets of rules.

Debates are an opportunity for MPs and Lords to discuss government policy, proposed new laws and current issues. It allows MPs to voice the concerns and interests of their constituents, and Members of the House of Lords can speak about issues brought to their attention by the public.

Commons debates are often lively, with MPs intervening on each other's speeches to support or challenge what they are saying. It is a dynamic style of discussion, in which MPs generally respond to the points made by other speakers rather than reading out formal, set-piece speeches. However, rules still govern debates. MPs have a right to be heard without overwhelming background noise, and unparliamentary language is not allowed.

The main role of the House of Lords is to debate and revise major legislation, but Lords also take part in general debates and discuss subjects of topical interest - like a new report, or a matter of public concern. The Lords regulate themselves and the order of business in the House. Therefore, there can be greater flexibility amongst its Members to examine an issue for longer than is typical in the Commons.