The Structure of the House of Commons
The House of Commons consists of 646 members, who are known as 'Members of Parliament' or 'MPs'. Each Member of Parliament represents a single constituency. Once elected, an MP will normally serve until the next dissolution of Parliament or until death. However, they may be expelled if they engage in serious misconduct or criminal activity.
When speaking in the House, Members may not refer to each other by name. If they wish to refer to an MP of the same party, an MP may say "My Honourable Friend", whereas an MP of a different party may be referred to as "The Honourable Member for [constituency]".
The Speaker
The Speaker of the House of Commons is the presiding officer of the Lower House of Parliament, and is elected by the MPs from within their own ranks. Whilst presiding, the Speaker sits at a chair in the front of the House. Traditionally, members of the Government sit on their right, and those of the Opposition on their left.
The Speaker controls the House's debates, and determines which members may speak - no member may make a speech without the Speaker's prior permission. Members of the House direct their speeches to the Speaker (rather than to the House), addressing them as 'Madam Speaker' or 'Mister Speaker'.
The Speaker is also responsible for maintaining discipline and order, and may punish members who break the rules of the House.
The Speaker does not take part in debate or vote (except to break ties), and remains non-partisan. They are also responsible for overseeing the administration of the House.
