Opposition parties in the House of Commons - Commons Library Standard Note

Published 02 August 2013 | Standard notes SN06057

Authors: Mark Sandford

Topic: Parliament

This note describes the development of the roles and entitlements of the opposition parties, in particular the Official Opposition, in the House of Commons. It lists the current opposition parties and their electoral performance, and discusses how the procedures and practices of the House make allowances for the Opposition.

Related information

The House of Commons Library provides research, analysis and information services for MPs and their staff.

If you have any comments on briefings from the Commons Library, please contact papers@parliament.uk.

Please note, authors are not available to discuss the contents of papers with members of the general public. 

TwitterFollow House of Commons Library on Twitter

The House of Lords Library delivers research and information services to Members and staff of the House in support of parliamentary business.

Email holresearchservices@parliament.uk with comments on Lords Library Notes.

Please note that authors are not available to discuss the contents of Library Notes with members of the general public.

POST produces independent, balanced and accessible briefings on public policy issues related to science and technology. You can leave feedback at www.surveymonkey.com/postnote