Legal Definitions - Clerk of the Parliaments

The Clerk of the Parliaments is the most important permanent official of the House of Lords. They are responsible for keeping the House's minutes and documents, and for advising the members on procedure.

For example, if a member of the House of Lords has a question about the rules of debate, they can ask the Clerk of the Parliaments for advice. The Clerk will explain the rules and help the member understand how to follow them.

Another example is that the Clerk of the Parliaments is responsible for recording the decisions made by the House of Lords. They keep a record of all the bills that are introduced, debated, and passed or rejected by the House.

Overall, the Clerk of the Parliaments plays a crucial role in ensuring that the House of Lords operates smoothly and efficiently. They are an expert on parliamentary procedure and are always available to help members navigate the complex rules and regulations of the House.