The Layout of the House of Commons

The layout of the House of Commons reflects the nature of the party system. The debating chamber is rectangular, with the seat of the Speaker at one end, and at the other end a formal barrier, known as the 'Bar'.

Benches run the length of both sides of the chamber, with the Government and its supporters sitting to the right of the Speaker, and the Opposition and members of the other parties seated to the left.

Leaders of the Government and the Opposition sit on the front benches, with their supporters - 'backbenchers' - sitting behind them.

There are only 437 seats in the Chamber for the 646 Members, and so Members who arrive late must stand near the entrance of the House.