Parliament of the United Kingdom

The Parliament of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, and may also legislate for the Crown Dependencies and the British Overseas Territories. It meets at the Palace of Westminster in London. Parliament possesses legislative supremacy and thereby holds ultimate power over all other political bodies in the United Kingdom and the Overseas Territories. While Parliament is bicameral, it has three parts: the sovereign, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. The three parts acting together to legislate may be described as the King-in-Parliament. The Crown normally acts on the advice of the prime minister, and the powers of the House of Lords are limited to only delaying legislation.
parliament-of-the-united-kingdom

Some of the key events about Parliament of the United Kingdom

  • 1215
    Magna Carta was signed, limiting the power of the monarch and establishing fundamental rights
  • 1689
    The Bill of Rights was passed, establishing the rights of Parliament and limiting the power of the monarchy
  • 1807
    The Slave Trade Act was passed, abolishing the slave trade in the British Empire
  • 1807
    Passed the Slave Trade Act, which abolished the slave trade but did not end slavery itself
  • 1819
    Enacted the Six Acts, restricting public gatherings and press freedoms
  • 1832
    The Reform Act was passed, expanding voting rights and redistributing parliamentary seats more fairly
  • 1834
    Implemented the Poor Law Amendment Act, creating harsh workhouse conditions for the destitute
  • 1845
    Failed to adequately respond to the Irish Potato Famine, leading to mass starvation and emigration
  • 1867
    The Second Reform Act further extended the franchise to working-class men in urban areas
  • 1876
    Passed the Royal Titles Act, proclaiming Queen Victoria as Empress of India without Indian consent
  • 1914
    Enacted the Defence of the Realm Act, curtailing civil liberties during World War I
  • 1918
    The Representation of the People Act granted voting rights to women over 30 and all men over 21
  • 1918
    Passed the Representation of the People Act, which still excluded women under 30 from voting
  • 1928
    The Equal Franchise Act gave women equal voting rights to men
  • 1936
    Approved the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty, maintaining British military presence in Egypt
  • 1948
    The National Health Service was established, providing free healthcare to all British citizens
  • 1965
    The Race Relations Act was passed, prohibiting racial discrimination in public places
  • 1971
    Introduced the Immigration Act, restricting Commonwealth citizens' right to live in the UK
  • 1998
    The Human Rights Act was enacted, incorporating the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law
  • 2003
    Voted to join the US-led invasion of Iraq based on flawed intelligence

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

Parliament of the United Kingdom Latest news

Labour Party Members Challenge PM Starmer's Winter Fuel Cut

Labour Party Members Challenge PM Starmer's Winter Fuel Cut

Labour Party conference rejects PM Keir Starmer's plan to cut winter fuel allowance for pensioners. The non-binding vote highlights internal party tensions over economic policies.

Economics, Politics • September 25 2024 , 11:44 AM  •  408 views
Starmer's Sober Address: Labour PM Calls for Tough Decisions Amid Challenges

Starmer's Sober Address: Labour PM Calls for Tough Decisions Amid Challenges

In his first conference speech as PM, Keir Starmer emphasized economic revival and tough choices. Despite Labour's recent victory, the celebration was subdued as Starmer faced criticism and declining popularity.

Economics, Politics • September 24 2024 , 07:00 PM  •  693 views
UK Plans Retail Disclosure Rule Overhaul, Exempts Investment Trusts

UK Plans Retail Disclosure Rule Overhaul, Exempts Investment Trusts

British authorities announce reforms to retail disclosure rules and temporary exemption for investment trusts from EU-derived requirements. New Consumer Composite Investments regime expected in 2025.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 19 2024 , 07:06 AM  •  1929 views
UK PM Starmer Under Scrutiny for Undeclared Gifts to Wife

UK PM Starmer Under Scrutiny for Undeclared Gifts to Wife

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces potential investigation for failing to disclose gifts of high-end clothing for his wife from a wealthy donor. Downing Street claims compliance but has declared additional items.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024 , 07:59 PM  •  4189 views
Starmer Warns of Tough Road Ahead in Upcoming Speech on UK's Future

Starmer Warns of Tough Road Ahead in Upcoming Speech on UK's Future

Prime Minister Keir Starmer to address nation, highlighting inherited challenges and need for time to implement changes. Speech aims to set realistic expectations for Britain's recovery.

Society, Politics • August 24 2024 , 09:44 PM  •  3902 views
UK Labour Government to Scrap Minimum Service Levels Law

UK Labour Government to Scrap Minimum Service Levels Law

Britain's new Labour government plans to repeal the minimum service levels law introduced by Conservatives. The move aims to reset industrial relations and restore trust in public services.

Business, Politics • August 6 2024 , 08:56 AM  •  346 views