Committees

Much of the work of the House of Commons and the House of Lords takes place in committees, made up of around 10 to 50 MPs or Lords. These committees examine issues in detail, from government policy and proposed new laws, to wider topics like the economy.

Name change for Standing Committees

From the start of the 2006-2007 parliamentary session, Standing Committees have been renamed 'General Committees'. Standing Committees on Bills are now called 'Public Bill Committees' and will have the power to take evidence from officials and experts outside of Parliament.

Select Committees
Select Committees work in both Houses. They check and report on areas ranging from the work of government departments to economic affairs.

Joint Committees
Joint Committees are committees consisting of MPs and Lords.

General Committees (including Public Bill Committees)
These committees are unique to the Commons and mainly look at proposed legislation in detail. They include all committees formerly known as Standing Committees.

Grand Committees
The House of Commons has three Grand Committees which consider matters relating to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Grand Committees in the House of Lords consider Bills outside of the Lords Chamber.