Description
Book SynopsisThe constitutional background of both legislatures and their procedures are described and where possible compared. Currently unsolved problems often have much in common, in vexed areas such as ethics requirements or how procedural rules permit minorities fair access to legislative time before majorities prevail. British successes include the enhanced authority and effectiveness of select committees and the acquisition of more debating time by the creation of a parallel Chamber. Unsolved problems at Westminster begin with the powers and status of the Lords, and go on through the search for more effective review of EU activities, adapting parliamentary scrutiny to more sophisticated government financial information, and making better use of legislative time without diminishing back-bench rights.The accelerated pace and extent of procedural changes in Congress is problematic. Constant pursuit of campaign funds, increased party exploitation of Members'' ethical shortcomings, and partisan r
Trade ReviewThe depth of procedural study is good, and there is a high level of analysis. * Fiona Williams, Political Studies Review Vol. 11 *
The strengths of this new work are many ... notable and praiseworthy for its clarity and honesty. * The Capitol Dome, US Capitol Historical Society *
Table of ContentsPreface ; 1. Introduction ; 2. Basic Constitutional Distinctions ; 3. The Four Houses ; 4. Representatives, Members, Lords and Senators ; 5. Procedural Basics ; 6. Power of the Purse ; 7. Scrutiny and Oversight ; 8. Committees ; 9. Legislation ; 10. Privilege and Contempt ; 11. Ethics and Standards ; 12. Conclusion ; Annex of Tables ; Index
