MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands present at Westminster seminar on Parliamentary practice

MLA Emma Edwards will meet with UK ministers, MPs and delegates from all over the world

Member of the Legislative Assembly Emma Edwards will be representing the Falkland Islands at the 60th Westminster Seminar on Parliamentary Practice and Procedure (March 6/12) hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK Branch.

First held in 1952, the seminar is an intensive period of study for newly elected MPs and early-career clerks from across the Commonwealth.

Following this, from the 14th to the 16th March 2011 CPA UK will hold the first of its Westminster Series, an intensive workshop on the Committee System. Councillor Edwards will also attend this event.

The event involves up to 65 delegates, and explores the idea of the Westminster-model parliament, its history, variations across the world, current methods of working, practical challenges and potential improvements.

Through discussions with UK Members, senior Westminster officials, and amongst participants, the Westminster Seminar aims to expose its delegates to a wide-range of ideas and practice, and to enable all who take part to work more effectively in their own legislatures upon returning home.

From 14-16 March, the intensive Committee System Workshop will enable parliamentarians to strengthen their expertise in areas specific to their interests.

Topics will include: public bills, select committees, conducting an effective enquiry and modernisation and reform.