Committees

Some of the most important work done by Parliament and Congress is only indirectly, if at all, linked to passing legislation. Debates in the chambers can be just as influential in their impact on public opinion and the feeling of the respective House.

Committees can also be very influential. While many play a part in the legislative process, others do not. In the Commons the select committees are involved purely in oversight of their respective Department. Henry Waxman, Chair of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee in the House of Representatives has said, "Simply by holding hearings, asking questions and releasing information, Congress can influence the direction of the nation even without passing legislation."

An important fact for all committee members; MPs; Peers; Congressmen; Senators and all observers of legislatures to remember.