What is the house of commons?
The House of Commons is the elected chamber of the UK Parliament. It has 650 MPs, each elected by one constituency. It debates and passes laws, approves taxes and spending, and holds the government to account. The government needs the support of most MPs to stay in power.
The Commons meets in the Palace of Westminster in London. MPs sit on green benches, with the government on one side and the opposition facing it. The Speaker chairs debates and keeps order. Most laws start in the Commons, and it has the final say over money. Under the Parliament Acts, it can override the House of Lords on most bills after a delay. MPs scrutinise ministers through questions, debates and select committees. The party, or group of parties, that can command a majority forms the government. If the government loses a vote of confidence, it may have to resign or call an election. The chamber is too small to seat every MP, so busy debates leave some standing. MPs vote by walking through two division lobbies.
Britain is split. Now you decide.
In Population Decides your laws must get through the Commons, so the size of your majority shapes what you can pass.
Play Population Decides freeCommon questions
How many MPs are there?
There are 650 MPs, one for each constituency across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
What is the difference between the Commons and the Lords?
The Commons is elected and has the final say on most laws. The Lords is unelected and mainly revises and checks bills.