Select committee definition
Select committees were established in 1979 to check and report on specific areas. They work in both the House of Commons and House of Lords. House of Commons select committees mainly examine the work of government departments, with a select committee for each government department, examining spending, policies and administration. House of Lords select committees examine: Europe, science, economics, communications and the UK constitution.
Some select committees have a role that crosses departmental boundaries and some are involved in on-going investigations of specific issues.
Select committees are made up of Members of Parliament selected from the political parties in proportion to the representation of those parties in the House. They generally have a chair elected by MPs. Committees also have the power to appoint specialist advisers.
They can hold inquiries into subjects of their choosing and reporting their findings to the House. The results of their inquiries are generally public and many require a response from the government. The government has undertaken to reply within two months of the publication of a report, but may seek the committee’s agreement to a longer period.
Select committees have the power to send for people, papers and records and are able to serve an order to attend, produce papers or produce records.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Act.
- All party parliamentary group.
- Bill.
- Cabinet committee.
- House of Lords Select Committee on National Policy for the Built Environment.
- Implementation taskforce.
- Parliamentary procedure.
- Select committee for the built environment.
- Select Committee for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.