Fiveable
Fiveable

House of Commons

Definition

The House of Commons is the lower house of the British Parliament and other parliamentary systems. It is composed of elected representatives who debate and pass laws.

Analogy

The House of Commons is like a bustling marketplace where elected representatives gather to discuss and negotiate laws. Just as vendors in a marketplace present their goods and haggle with customers, members of the House of Commons present their ideas and engage in debates.

Related terms

Upper house (House of Lords): This is the second chamber in the British Parliament, consisting mainly of appointed members who provide expertise and review legislation proposed by the House of Commons.

Parliamentary sovereignty: This refers to the principle that parliament has supreme authority over lawmaking within its jurisdiction.

Speaker: The Speaker is an impartial officer who presides over debates in legislative bodies such as the House of Commons, ensuring fair procedures and maintaining order.

"House of Commons" appears in:

Practice Questions (2)

  • Which country's lower house of the legislature is called the House of Commons?
  • How many parties dominate the House of Commons of the United Kingdom?


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.