It's all to do with the training: You can do a lot if you're properly trained.

-- Queen Elizabeth II


  


Commonwealth Module - Unit 2: The Role of the Speaker of Parliament and Other Presiding Officers
 

Learning Objectives:
Speakers and Their Legislatures

After studying this unit you should be able to:

  • Describe the role, functions and responsibilities of the Speaker or other presiding officers of legislatures;
  • Explain how they are supported in their tasks by their deputies and parliamentary staff;
  • Understand the relationships that exist between the Speaker and other parliamentary and political officials;;
  • Discuss how and why the roles of presiding officers may vary in different legislatures.

In every parliament, whether Westminster or presidential, there is a person who takes on the role of a Speaker, or presiding officer. In this unit we consider the role of this individual and the systems in which they work. We then look at the individuals who help them accomplish their goals, and how the role of the presiding officer changes from system to system.

 

 

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