The Houses of Parliament in London

Considered by some to be the heart beat of the capital city, the Houses of Parliament in London consist of two branches - the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Both meet in their respective houses within the Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament), which is located next door to the Big Ben clock tower in London on the bank of the river Thames.

The main role of Parliament is to scrutinize government work, pass laws, debate, and approve the government to raise taxes. When examining the work of the government, Parliament questions government ministers and performs investigative measures through various committees. Parliament is also responsible for the approval of new laws. The government or another group introduces the law, and Parliament then debates and votes on the proposals. The law cannot pass without approval by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

The House of Commons was created in the 13th century. When grievances arose, landowners were expected to plead these before the King, and began sending representatives in their stead to petition and discuss taxes. Eventually these representatives, or 'commons', were given their own chamber apart from the nobles. This became known as the "house". By the 14th century, two different houses had emerged. One consisted of religious leaders known as the Lords Spiritual and magnates known as the Lords Temporal. The other was comprised of representatives from boroughs and shires, and came to be known as the House of Commons.

The House of Lords was at first known to be the more powerful of the two, but by the 17th century, the House of Commons was given the sole right to initiate taxation measures and handle financial matters. The House of Lords can discuss these types of bills but are not allowed to amend or block them.

The House of Commons is the body through which all legislature passes through. The House of Commons is elected by the public, and the party with the most members in the Commons forms the government. Members of the Commons, known as "MP’s", debate and propose new laws. The Chancellor, Prime Minister, and other key figures from main political parties work in the House of Commons.

The House of Lords consists of about 740 members. They are not publicly elected but instead are usually appointed by the Queen or the House of Lords Appointments Commission, and include experts in many different fields. The House of Lords complements the work of the Commons, makes laws, and investigates issues with policy.

Parliament is open to the public - all United Kingdom residents are invited to take tours of the building as well as watch debates. By the way, a great view of Parliament can be had from a London Eye capsule.