What should we do?

UKParliament

alltrustgone wrote: »

"We also want to thank other MSE users for their comments but it may be of use to clarify that the House of Commons is part of Parliament and therefore does not represent the Government. One of the roles of Parliament is to scrutinise the work of the Government and hold them to account. "

Can you elaborate on this.

Hi alltrustgone
Thanks for your question.

Parliament has three principle roles:

1. Examining and challenging the work of the government (scrutiny)
2. Debating and passing all laws (legislation)
3. Enabling the government to raise taxes

The House of Commons can use a variety of techniques to scrutinise the work of the government such as:

• questioning government ministers
• debating
• investigative work through Select Committees.

The government can publicly respond to explain and justify policies and decisions.

There is a video on parliament.uk of MPs explaining different ways in which they scrutinise the government if this is of interest, it can be played via YouTube:
http://www.parliament.uk/about/podcasts/theworkofparliament/house-of-commons-chamber-film/scrutinising-government/(the video is 2 minutes long)

We hope this provides further information?
Best wishes
DOT

Old_Wrinkly

You need a better proofreader ...

cepheus

ginjim wrote: »

does the commons/government agencies employ people or agencies to sway public opinion on forums like this?

MoneySavingExpert often highlights many unfair consumer practices and scams which might be embarrassing to those with strong business interests.

It is surprising how often even when Martin Lewis or MSE employees highlight an issue for comment, the thread is quickly infiltrated by posters attempting to minimise its importance or impact, suggesting it has been poorly researched or misinterpreted. It sometimes feels as one is debating with a public relations expert rather than a concerned consumer or saver.

We have to be careful that posters are representing their own views rather than working on behalf of central party office or corporate interests. This sort of activity is carried out more ostensibly through third parties called astroturf groups nowadays, but their purpose is to assist the original organisation.

pedro123456

DOT is there a "house of lords rep" for us to ask questions of?

UKParliament

pedro123456 wrote: »

DOT is there a "house of lords rep" for us to ask questions of?

Hi pedro123456,

Thank you for your question. This is currently a House of Commons pilot however we will pass on your interest to the House of Lords.

Best wishes
DOT