The Guardian view on parliament in a crisis rising to the challenge Editorial
about 4 years in The guardian
As parliament goes into recess, the question of how MPs should hold government to account is more urgent than ever
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Prime minister’s questions in the House of Commons typifies British democracy in some respects. It fulfils an essential function by means of convention, and it often promotes theatrical performance over legal substance. Executive power wielded from Downing Street is wide-ranging and, if the incumbent commands a large parliamentary majority, hard to check in practice. But prime ministers cannot hide from interrogation by MPs. Their strengths are proven and their weaknesses exposed.
Boris Johnson has not feared Jeremy Corbyn in that arena and will not face the outgoing Labour leader again after Wednesday’s session. The valedictory exchanges were true to type for each man. Mr Corbyn raised important issues regarding the coronavirus response, but without forensic rigour. Mr Johnson gave responses too void of information to qualify as answers. Continue reading...
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