The Future of Parliament - 9781403995278

This book was put together by Giddings (politics, U. of Reading, UK) to mark the 40th anniversary of Britain's Study of Parliament Group (SPG), which brings together academics interested in the working of Parliament with Parliamentary officials in order to address questions of contemporary Parliamentary activities and institutions. The 22 essays begin with a pair of contributions from founding members of the SPG that review changes in Parliamentary work and practices since the group's founding. Papers then look at changes in the membership and culture of Parliament before examining the scrutiny role of Parliament. The next group discusses Parliament's legislative role in the context of calls for reform. The constitutional and legal context of Parliamentary operation is examined, especially in light of the protection of citizens' rights. Issues of devolution, the decision to go to war, relations with the European Union, and relations with the global media are also discussed. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)