How Public Engagement Became a Core Part of the House of Commons Select Committees

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the role of public engagement by select committees of the House of Commons. It shows that committees’ public engagement activity has been transformed since 1979, when departmental select committees were introduced. We start by outlining the different elements of public engagement, showing that it entails a wide range of types of activity from information about committees’ activity to opportunities through which citizens can shape parliamentary decisions. We then proceed to outline how public engagement has become a core activity of select committees in the House of Commons. We show developments taking place within all elements of public engagement. Through the use of case studies, we illustrate specific innovations that have led towards more agile and inclusive ways to consult and involve the public into committees’ activities. We finish by identifying some of the challenges still present, namely the need to reach new and more varied audiences.