1.6 Scrutiny of the Executive

Another important function of the Parliament is to scrutinise the policies and actions of the Government of the day. This role is largely facilitated through an adversarial process whereby the Legislative Assembly recognises an official Opposition (known as Her Majesty's Opposition) that puts counter - proposals to the Government of the day and questions the Government's policies. Procedures such as questions with or without notice to Ministers and institutions such as the parliamentary committee system assist the Parliament in its scrutiny role. The ultimate power of the Parliament lies in its ability to withdraw its support for the Government. The Parliament's withdrawal of support is usually manifested in a vote of no confidence in the Government.

Last reviewed: 17 July, 2009

Last updated: 22 July, 2009

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