Contempt of Parliament - Project Open Gov

Conduct that may obstruct or impede either House, its Members or its officers in their parliamentary work.

Category: Devolution and constitution Parliamentary procedure

Also used as: contempt of Parliament, contempt, contempt of privilege, parliamentary contempt, contempts of Parliament

Source / explainer: Read the UK Parliament glossary entry on contempt

Last reviewed: 22 August 2026

Contempt of Parliament is conduct that may obstruct or impede either House of Parliament, its Members or its officers in carrying out their functions, or that offends against the authority or dignity of Parliament. It is closely linked to parliamentary privilege and may be considered by the relevant House or committee.

Related terms

Committee of PrivilegesA Commons committee that considers matters relating to parliamentary privilege referred to it by the House.House of CommonsThe elected chamber of the UK Parliament, made up of Members of Parliament.House of LordsThe unelected second chamber of the UK Parliament, which scrutinises bills and government policy.Parliamentary PrivilegeThe rights and protections Parliament needs to carry out its work effectively.