Procedure Committee: Written Parliamentary Questions
Committee hears from witnesses
The Procedure Committee is holding an oral evidence session on the operation of written parliamentary questions—the formal mechanism by which MPs submit detailed queries to government departments for written replies. The session will examine how the system functions, identify any barriers or inefficiencies, and consider whether reforms are needed to improve access to information and departmental responsiveness.
Written questions are a core accountability tool. How efficiently the system operates affects MPs' ability to scrutinise government on behalf of constituents, and determines how quickly citizens can get answers to concerns about public services and policy. Poor performance erodes parliamentary oversight; reform can sharpen it.
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