The Work of a Member of Parliament
What does an MP do?
Under the First Past the Post electoral system, voters or constituents have only one MP. In each area or constituency it is the candidate with the most votes who becomes the MP.
It is the job of an MP to represent voters in their area at the UK Parliament. This may include:
- writing to or meeting with a relevant Cabinet Secretary or Minister
- speaking in the House of Commons during a debate
- asking questions at Prime Minister鈥檚 Question Time
- introducing bills on topics of concern to their constituents
Outside Parliament, MPs may:
- lobby other organisations (such as local councils, health boards) and individuals on behalf of their constituents
- raise the profile of an issue in the media