Unique Features of the Norwegian Storting

Abstract

N ONE important respect the Norwegian parliament (Storting) defies classification: it is neither unicameral nor bicameral. The 150 members of parliament are selected under a list system of proportional representation from 20 electoral districts without reference to chambers or divisions. Only after the Storting has been organized is it divided: one quarter of its members (38) being elected to serve as members of the Lagting and the remaining three quarters (112) designated as members of the Odelsting.1 Although the members of the Lagting are elected formally by all members of the Storting, the real choice is made by the parliamentary party groups. The executive committee of each party group selects the actual candidates and the number selected is based upon the total parliamentary membership of the party. For example, if a party's membership is equal to 10 per cent of the Storting, it would receive approximately 10 per cent of the seats in the Lagting. Before final decisions are made by the party groups, individual legislators have an opportunity to indicate their preferences. There seems to be no particular prestige attached to service in the Lagting and, consequently, preferences are based upon more-or-less personal considerations. The ambitious politician, anxious to establish a reputation, is more likely to prefer membership in the Odelsting because the work of this body, as will be demonstrated later, offers greater political challenge. Storting members who are rather intensely occupied with official or personal affairs may find it advantageous to take a seat in the Lagting because service there is less demanding of time. Some attempt is made to include in the Lagting newly elected members of parliament, although in each session the largest part of the membership in the smaller chamber comes from the more experienced parliamentarians.2 For the consideration of some questions, the two chambers (or divisions3) sit separately, but in considering other matters, particularly the budget, the Storting acts in a plenary capacity.4 This combination of bicameralism and unicameralism has been used in Norway since the Constitution was adopted in 1814.5 There is evidence that