House of Commons

The House of Commons is the elected chamber of the Parliament of Canada. It has 338 Members of Parliament (MPs) elected from ridings across the country. The House holds the government to account, debates national issues, and passes federal laws.

Composition and Roles

• MPs: Elected using first-past-the-post.
• Speaker: Presides over debates and enforces rules (non-partisan while in the Chair).
• Government and Opposition: The party with confidence of the House forms government; other parties form the opposition.
• Caucus and Whips: Organize party business and discipline.
• Officers/Services: Clerks, Library of Parliament, Parliamentary Protective Service.

Key Procedures

• Confidence: Government must maintain the confidence of the House (e.g., on budgets, key motions).
• Question Period: Daily scrutiny of government actions.
• Committees: Standing, special, and legislative committees study bills and issues.
• Estimates and Supply: Review and approve government spending.

Elections

• Federal general elections typically every four years (or sooner).
• By-elections fill vacancies between general elections.
• Seat distribution updated periodically via redistribution.

Symbols and Traditions

• The Mace, the green benches, and Black Rod (for Senate summons).
• Bilingual debates and publications (English/French).

Related Pages

• Parliament of Canada
• Government of Canada
• Prime Minister of Canada
• Elections in Canada
• Constitution of Canada

External Links

• House of Commons – Official site
• Guide to the House – OurCommons
• Research Publications – Library of Parliament