A debate is a formal discussion on a topic in the House of Commons or House of Lords. Members take it in turns to speak on the subject concerned and the debate is strictly controlled by a set of rules. Debates are reported in the Official Report (Hansard) which is the edited verbatim report of proceedings in both Houses.
Further information on this subject can be found from the following links.
Guides to People, Events and Places: Debates ( PDF 339 KB)
About Parliament: Main business (debates)
Official Report (Hansard)
Related glossary term: Adjournment debates
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