Beginner guides
Quick explainers
Short, source-linked answers to beginner questions about UK politics and Parliament.
Parliament and Government: what's the difference?
They are connected but not the same. See what each does, who belongs to each, and what manifestos, votes, Acts and implemented policy really prove.
Read explainerIn depthElections and representation
Follow a general-election vote from constituency and ballot to a winning MP, Commons seats, Government formation and the formal appointment of a Prime Minister.
Read explainerWhat is PMQs?
PMQs is the regular Commons session where MPs question the Prime Minister.
Read explainer3 minWhat does an MP do?
An MP represents a House of Commons constituency and appears in Parliament's public records.
Read explainer3 minHow do Commons votes work?
Commons votes are often recorded as divisions, counted as ayes and noes.
Read explainer2 minWhat does a whip do?
Whips are party organisers who help coordinate voting and attendance in Parliament.
Read explainer2 minWhat is a constituency?
A constituency is the local area that elects one MP to the House of Commons.
Read explainer3 minWhat is a bill?
A bill is a proposal for a new law or a change to an existing law before it becomes an Act.
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