Although Parliament is constantly in the news and televised daily, much of its work remains a mystery to outsiders and is sometimes perplexing even to its own members. This book provides a unique insight into the work and daily life of Parliament. It sets out plainly and intelligibly what goes on and why things happen, but it also analyses the pressures within the institution, its strengths and weaknesses, and ways in which it might change.
Covering every aspect of the work, membership, and structures of both Houses, this book also reflects the profound changes that have taken place in Parliament over the years.
Robert Rogers and Rhodri Walters joined the service of the House of Commons and House of Lords respectively in the early 1970s, both from Oxford University. They have been involved in every aspect of the work of each House since then, and now, as Clerks at the Table, can be seen in wig and gown in each Chamber. Robert is Principal Clerk of the Table Office in the Commons (Clerk of Legislation from October); Rhodri is Clerk of Committees of the House of Lords.