Glossary

This section explains key parliamentary and government terms.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Parliamentary procedure

A procedure allowing delegated legislation to be made and take effect before later parliamentary approval is required.

Finance and spending

The main annual request for parliamentary authorisation of departmental spending.

Public bodies and agencies Transport and infrastructure

Abbreviation: MCA

The agency responsible for maritime safety, coastguard services and regulation of shipping standards.

Health and social care Public bodies and agencies Regulators

Abbreviation: MHRA

The UK regulator responsible for medicines, medical devices and blood components for transfusion.

Parliament and elections

Abbreviation: MP

An elected representative who sits in the House of Commons.

Government roles and offices

A member of the government with responsibility for a policy area or department.

Government departments Justice and security

Abbreviation: MoD

The UK Government department responsible for defence policy, the armed forces and national military security.

Government departments Welfare and public services

Abbreviation: MHCLG

The UK Government department responsible for housing, local government, communities and planning policy in England.

Government departments Justice and security

Abbreviation: MoJ

The UK Government department responsible for courts, prisons, probation and justice policy in England and Wales.

Finance and spending Parliamentary procedure

A Commons motion authorising public spending connected to a bill.