Explain how MSPs can represent their constituents in Parliament

Introduction Define MSPs This question is about what MSPs can do inside Parliament – not what they are doing in the constituency. (Be careful with this question, as you won’t get any marks if you spend time talking about meetings in the constituency and stuff)

First Minister’s Questions MSPs can represent their constituents in Parliament by asking question in First Minister’s Question Time. This is held at 12pm every Thursday for half an hour. MSPs can put themselves forward to ask Nicola Sturgeon a question directly. For example Mary Scanlon might ask what Nicola Sturgeon plans to do about youth unemployment in Moray. This is a useful way to represent constituents as First Minister’s Questions usually features on the news each week, and so this gives the MSP an opportunity to bring wide attention to an issue.

Committees MSPs can also represent their constituents in Parliament by taking part in the work of a committee. Committees are formed on all of the important work that the Parliament does, and so if an MSP has a particular interest in health, and in improving health in the local area, they may join the health committee where they can discuss and amend new laws that are being passed in a lot more detail. Committees have the opportunity to call cabinet secretaries and government ministers to answer questions. Committees also have the opportunity to propose new laws to be debated in Parliament

Debates MSPs can also take part in debates in the Parliament, this can be an opportunity to raise concerns about problems in the local area. For example Mike MacKenzie might take part in a debate on minimum alcohol pricing policy, and say how it affects people in his area who are employed in manufacturing alcoholic drinks.