Description
Book Synopsis'Erskine May', like 'Hansard', is a book recognised by its author's name much more readily than by its title; and, also like Hansard, it is closely connected to the work of the British Houses of Parliament. Thomas Erskine May (1815â86), clerk to the House of Commons, began his working life as assistant to the House of Commons librarian, and familiarised himself with constitutional history and parliamentary procedure during a long and distinguished career. This 1844 book describes the workings of Parliament, including its constitution, powers and privileges, practice and proceedings, and private bills. The history and traditions of the institution are examined, and current practice explained in detail. It went into several subsequent editions, and was translated into many languages. Erskine May was also a cautious but efficient reformer, streamlining procedures in order to manage much greater amounts of parliamentary business: his work is still consulted on procedural matters.
Table of ContentsPreface; Part I. Constitution, Powers, and Privileges of Parliament: 1. Preliminary view of the parts of Parliament; 2. Power and jurisdiction of Parliament collectively; 3. General view of the privileges of Parliament; 4. Privilege of freedom of speech; 5. Freedom from arrest or molestation; 6. Jurisdiction of courts of law; Part II. Practice and Proceedings in Parliament: 7. Introductory remarks; 8. Motions and questions; 9. Amendments to questions; 10. The same question or bill may not be twice offered in a session; 11. Rules of debate; 12. Divisions; 13. Committees of the whole House; 14. Select committees; 15. Witnesses; 16. Communications between Lords and Commons; 17. Communications from the Crown to Parliament; 18. Passing public bills; 19. Ancient mode of petitioning Parliament; 20. Accounts, papers and records; 21. Influence of the Commons; 22. Issue of writs; 23. Impeachment by the Commons; Part III. The Manner of Passing Private Bills: 24. Distinctive character of private bills; 25. Conditions to be observed; 26. Course of proceedings upon private bills; 27. Course of proceedings in the Lords; 28. Rules, orders and course of proceedings in the Lords; 29. Fees payable; Appendix; Index.
