Who's my MP?

Your MP represents your local area in Parliament, campaigning on issues and debating and questioning government policy. Remember, though, that an MP is only as informed as their constituents make them. If your MP doesn’t have an accurate picture of local views, they can’t reflect them properly in Parliament.

So make sure they have no doubts about what you think. Find out who your local MP is and get in touch. Many MPs hold regular local ‘surgeries’, where you can visit them to discuss any issue you want. Those who don’t will have other means of communicating with their constituents.

Of course, the candidate you vote for to be your MP may not win. Nevertheless, the winner will still represent your constituency and everyone who lives there, and is there as your first point of contact for parliamentary concerns.

what-it-means

By-election

An election fought in just one constituency where the vacancy for an MP has arisen.

Constituent

A resident of a constituency represented by an MP.

Devolved bodies

The Westminster Parliament has devolved power to the Scottish Parliament, National Assembly for Wales and Northern Ireland Assembly. These bodies can make legislation in certain policy areas, such as environment and business.

European election

Elections to the European Parliament.

General Election

The day, every four to five years, when candidates are elected to become MPs in every constituency in the country.

Local election

Elections held to choose local councillors who represent you in your local government offices.

London Assembly

The London Assembly is an elected body that works to govern the whole of London.

MP

Short for Member of Parliament.

The Opposition

MPs from parties that are not part of the governing party. They make the Government explain its actions and are responsible for providing the people with alternatives to government policies. The second largest party has a special role as the Official Opposition and receives privileges to enable it to hold the Government to account.

Political party

MPs are usually members of political parties that reflect their broad views. The three leading political parties in the Westminster Parliament are the Conservative Party, the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats.

Prime Minister

The Prime Minister is the head of the Government. He or she is the leader of the party that wins the most seats at a General Election.

where-to-go

Contacting Parliament

See how you can get in touch with your MP, a Lord or other government offices.

BBC Parliament

Follow the day’s questions, debates and legislation as they happen.

Working for an MP

Help and resources if you are, or want to start, working for an MP.

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