Glossary
This section explains key parliamentary and government terms.
Business Statement
A statement setting out forthcoming parliamentary business and scheduling.
Call for Evidence
An invitation for written submissions to help inform a committee inquiry or review.
Command Paper
Abbreviation: CP
A government paper formally presented to Parliament.
Committee Report
A published report setting out a parliamentary committee’s findings and recommendations.
Explanatory Memorandum
A document explaining the purpose and effect of a statutory instrument or similar measure.
Explanatory Notes
Notes published with a bill to explain what its clauses mean and how it is intended to work.
Government Response
The formal reply the government gives to a committee report or recommendation.
Green Paper
A government discussion document setting out ideas for consultation before firm policy decisions are made.
Hansard
The official report of what was said in Parliament.
Impact Assessment
A document explaining the expected effects of a proposed policy or law.
Oral Evidence
Evidence given by witnesses speaking directly to a parliamentary committee.
Order Paper
The official list of business scheduled for a sitting day in Parliament.
Special Report
A committee report published for a specific purpose, often to respond to government replies or present particular material.
Statutory Consultation
A consultation that the law requires to take place before a decision, regulation, or other action is taken.
Statutory Guidance
Official guidance issued under legal authority, which public bodies may be required to follow or take into account.
Votes and Proceedings
The official Commons record of decisions and proceedings for a sitting day.
White Paper
A government policy document setting out more definite proposals or plans for future action.
Written Evidence
Evidence submitted in writing to a parliamentary committee or inquiry.
Written Ministerial Statement
A formal written statement by a minister to Parliament, usually used to announce decisions or provide official information.
Written Question
A question submitted in writing to a minister, with the answer given in writing.