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Members of Parliament

What is an MP?

An MP (Member of Parliament) is a person who has been elected to represent local people at Parliament, in the House of Commons. Every part of the UK elects a local MP so that every area is represented when decisions taken at Parliament affect them.  

Who is my MP?

To find out who represents you at Parliament, and how to contact them, you can:

Most MPs are members of a political party, although some sit as Independents.   Once they are elected, the MP represents everyone in their constituency, including supporters of other parties.

How MPs are elected

During an election everyone eligible to cast a vote in a constituency (constituents) selects one candidate to be their MP.

What do MPs do?

MPs work both at the UK Parliament and in their local constituencies, dividing their time between the two.

How can MPs raise issues in Parliament?

By raising an issue in the House of Commons, MPs can bring it to the attention of the government, other MPs, the press and public.

MPs who hold an additional office

Find out how holding an additional role can affect what an MP may say and do in the House of Commons.

MPs and political parties

Nearly all MPs represent political parties. The party with the most MPs after a general election normally forms the Government. The next largest party becomes the official Opposition.

Accountability and Standards

MPs are accountable directly to their local electors. MPs must also adhere to strict rules of conduct and are expected to abide by parliament's conventions.

Pay and expenses for MPs

Find out the current annual salary for an MP and the additional allowances they are entitled to.

All-Party Parliamentary Groups

All-Party Groups (APGs) are informal cross-party groups that have no official status within Parliament. They are essentially run by and for Members of the Commons and Lords.

How does an MP leave office?

Most MPs leave office at a general election, either through choice – by standing down - or through electoral defeat.

House of Commons Enquiry Service

Contact us if you have a question about the work, history or membership of the House of Commons.

Email: hcenquiries@parliament.uk
Telephone: 0800 112 4272 (Freephone) or 020 7219 4272
Text phone: Dial 18001 followed by our full number

Telephone enquiry service is open between 10am-12 midday and 2pm-4pm (Monday to Friday).

Find out more

Related Information

Read answers to questions that are asked frequently about MPs and their role, with links to additional information.

Members of Parliament: FAQs