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Distributed for University of British Columbia Press
Constituency Influence in Parliament
Countering the Centre
In contrast with most literature on Canadian politics, this book resurrects the relevance of Canada’s Parliament by examining what MPs do, why they do it, and what effect it has. Constituency Influence in Parliament examines the rules and conduct of Private Members’ Business to assess the complex relationship between constituency representation and policy proposals. This revealing study shows that Members of Parliament pursue various types of goals in the legislature – not all of which focus upon parties or leaders – and each MP plays an important representative role in shaping policy.
Table of Contents
1 Parliament and Its Members: Representation and Governance
2 The Electoral Connection and Legislative Behaviour in Canada
3 Legislation in the House: Private Members’ Business
4 Private Members’ Business: Participation and Motivation
5 Constituency Interests and Private Members’ Business
6 The Nation’s Interests, the Party’s Interests, or the MP’s Interests?
7 Does It Matter? Do Members of Parliament Influence Policy?
8 Conclusion: Individual Autonomy and Representation
Appendices; Notes; Bibliography