IR What do you think are the most important features of the role of Speaker?
JB One of the most important features of the role is to ensure that the voices of all MPs are heard and I take this responsibility very seriously. As Speaker, I chair debates in the chamber and I am keen to ensure that members from all parties are given the opportunity to speak and be heard. Less visibly, I also ensure members’ views are heard by overseeing the weekly ballots for adjournment debates, which are an opportunity for backbench MPs to hold short debates on topics of importance to them. I also think it’s very important that members have the opportunity to hold the government to account, to ask questions of ministers about their policies or handling of particular issues. To this end, I’ve granted 91 (as at end of March) requests from members seeking to ask urgent questions.
Your organisation does not have access to this article.
Sign up today to give your students the edge they need to achieve their best grades with subject expertise
Subscribe
