Legislative Branch
Parliament, the elected law-making branch of government, is made up of the Queen (represented by the Governor General), the House of Commons and the Senate. Parliament is considered to be the highest political institution in Canada's political system.
The legislative branch of government provides a forum for debate of the day's leading political issues, and has the power and responsibility to create laws.
Legislative committees perform detailed studies of public policy.
- Frequently Asked Questions on the Legislative Process
- About Parliament
- The Legislative process
- Members of Parliament
- Parliament of Canada Web Site
- Chamber and Committee Business
- Joint Committees: Senate and House of Commons
- Democratic Reform
- LEGISinfo
House of Commons
The House of Commons is the major law-making body. It is composed of elected representatives who debate and vote on proposed laws for Canada.
Senate
The Governor General appoints senators upon the prime minister's recommendation.
The Senate votes on legislation after it has been passed in the House of Commons. No bill can become law unless it has been passed by the Senate.
Senatorial Committees investigate important public concerns such as health care, national security and defence, and other economic and social issues.
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