How are laws made?
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One of Parliament’s main roles is debating and passing laws.
Why are new laws needed?
New laws
The Government introduces most plans for new laws, with many included in the Queen’s Speech at the opening of each session of Parliament, and changes to existing laws. However, new laws can originate from an MP or a Lord.
Emergency issues such as the threat of terrorism, pressure on the Government to update old laws and case law in the courts, interpreting, clarifying and re-applying established principles of statute law, all contribute to the need for new laws.
Who is consulted about changes to the law?
Before proposals for laws, known as Bills, are introduced into Parliament, there is often consultation or discussion with interested parties such as professional bodies, voluntary organisations and pressure groups.
White and Green Papers
Proposals for legislative changes may be contained in government White Papers. These may be preceded by consultation papers, sometimes called Green Papers...
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