|
More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
|
Whips
|
|
Members of parliament responsible for managing party business in both Houses and for ensuring the maximum vote from their own party at the end of an important debate. Their role began in the 18C with the increasing importance of the *two-party system. They were known then as whippers-in (the hunt servants responsible for ensuring that hounds do not stray). The government chief whip, whose office is at 12 *Downing Street, liaises closely with the chief whip of the Opposition to organize the day-to-day business of parliamentary debate; traditionally they do not themselves join in the debate, so as not to jeopardize their working relationship.
|
|
|
|
Every week the whips send out to their party members a document (which itself is also known as 'the whip') detailing the forthcoming debates and underlining them in three categories of importance. A 'three-line whip' means that, except in case of illness, a member must be present to vote in the division.
|
|
|
|