The use of parliamentary questions in the Israeli parliament, 1992–96

Abstract

This article examines the use of parliamentary questions in the Israeli parliament (Knesset) as a means of controlling the government during the years 1992–96 through an analysis of 1041 parliamentary questions on the basis of four criteria: efficiency (how long it takes to be answered); effectiveness (achieving its goals); the need for a supplementary question; and the publicity surrounding the minister's answer. It shows that although in the 13th Knesset the parliamentary question became a more efficient and effective parliamentary tool than in previous Knesset terms, its ability to serve as a means for controlling the government leaves much to be desired.