Define: Member Of Parliament

A Member of Parliament (MP) is an elected representative who serves in the legislative body of a parliamentary democracy. MPs are elected by eligible voters within specific geographical constituencies or districts to represent their interests and concerns in the national or regional parliament. Their primary responsibilities include participating in debates, proposing and voting on legislation, scrutinising government actions, and representing their constituents’ interests in parliamentary proceedings. MPs may also serve on parliamentary committees, where they review and analyse legislation and conduct inquiries into various issues. The role and powers of MPs can vary depending on the country’s constitutional framework and parliamentary system. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, MPs are affiliated with political parties and typically represent the party’s platform and policies, while in others, MPs may serve as independents or represent smaller parties.

A person entitled to sit and vote in Parliament. The term is not usually taken to refer to the House of Lords, although that House is technically part of Parliament as well as the House of Commons. There are about 600 seats in the House of Commons, hence 600 MPs must be elected. MPs are elected by a simple majority system, and serve for a four-year term. There are no (legal) limits on the number of terms which may be served; the only limits are the health and enthusiasm of the MP and, of course, the tolerance of the electorate.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.