A large part of the work of the House of Commons and the House of Lords happens in committees, made up by smaller groups of MPs or Lords. These committees examine issues in detail, from government policy and new legislation, to wider topics like the economy.
Public committee sessions are open to everyone, including the press. There are meetings Monday to Thursday when Parliament is in session (meeting). Visitors should arrive as early as possible; space is limited and places cannot be booked in advance.
Committee meetings for both Houses take place in the Palace of Westminster (go to St. Stephen's Entrance), and some House of Commons committees are held in Portcullis House, located on Victoria Embankment.
At both locations please tell a visitor assistant or police officer that you're attending a committee, you will then be placed in the right queue.
If you are interested in a particular committee, check its webpage for future meeting dates and contact details.
Committees: A-Z Index
House of Commons
House of Lords
Live and archived video and audio footage from Parliament.
Find more About Parliament translated into other languages.