Backbencher facts for kids

A backbencher is a special name for a member of parliament (MP) or a lawmaker who doesn't have a big job in the government. They are not a minister (someone in charge of a government department) and they are not a main spokesperson for the Opposition party. Think of them as regular members of the team who don't have a special title or a specific leadership role.

Opposition backbenches in the British House of Commons chamber

What is a Backbencher?

In countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, which use a Westminster parliamentary system, a backbencher is an elected person who represents their local area in parliament. They are a member of a political party, but they are not part of the government's top team (the Cabinet) and they are not a leading member of the main opposition party.

Where Do Backbenchers Sit?

The name "backbencher" comes from where these members usually sit in the parliament chamber. In places like the British House of Commons, the government ministers and the main opposition leaders sit on the front rows of benches. These are called the "front benches." All the other members, who don't have these important roles, sit on the rows behind them. These are the "back benches," and so the people sitting there are called backbenchers.

What Do Backbenchers Do?

Even though they don't have a big government job, backbenchers have very important roles. Their main jobs include:

• Representing their local area: They speak up for the people who elected them and bring their concerns to parliament.
• Voting on laws: They vote on all the new laws and policies that the government wants to introduce.
• Asking questions: They can ask questions to government ministers about their work and decisions. This helps to keep the government accountable.
• Joining committees: Many backbenchers work on special committees. These groups study specific topics, like health, education, or the environment, in detail.
• Debating issues: They take part in discussions and debates about important national issues.

Why Are Backbenchers Important?

Backbenchers make up the largest group of members in parliament. They are crucial because:

• They can influence government decisions. If enough backbenchers from the ruling party disagree with a policy, the government might have to change it.
• They provide a check on the power of the government. By asking tough questions and debating policies, they ensure the government is doing its job well.
• They often bring up issues that are important to everyday people in their local communities.

See also

In Spanish: Backbencher para niños