Hansard

hansard-1832

Hansard, Canada, Dominion Parliament (July 17, 1895)

Ontario Hansard 1953

Hansard is the official report of all debates in Parliament. Named after Thomas Curson Hansard, a printer and publisher in the 19th century, Hansard is a comprehensive and verbatim record of speeches and debates by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the House of Lords. The purpose of Hansard is to provide a detailed and accurate account of parliamentary proceedings, ensuring transparency and accountability in the legislative process.

History

The origins of Hansard date back to the early 19th century. Before the establishment of the official Hansard, parliamentary debates were informally reported and often published in newspapers or as pamphlets. Thomas Curson Hansard was among the first to systematically collect and publish these debates, leading to the publication that now bears his name. Over time, the responsibility for producing Hansard shifted to the Parliament itself, making it an official record.

Function and Importance

Hansard plays a crucial role in the functioning of a democratic government. It allows citizens to access the discussions and decisions made by their elected representatives, fostering transparency and accountability. Researchers, journalists, and members of the public use Hansard as a primary source for understanding the nuances of parliamentary debate and the legislative process.

Format and Publication

Hansard is published in several formats, including daily editions that cover the proceedings of each house of Parliament. At the end of each parliamentary session, these are compiled into bound volumes. In addition to the printed versions, Hansard is also available online, making it accessible to a wider audience.

The content of Hansard includes debates, oral and written questions, statements by members, and other proceedings in the chambers of Parliament. Speeches are recorded verbatim, but minor edits are made for clarity, such as correcting grammatical errors and removing repetitions.

Digital Hansard

With the advent of the internet, digital versions of Hansard have become increasingly important. The online Hansard provides easy access to current and historical parliamentary debates. Advanced search features allow users to find specific speeches, topics, or speakers, enhancing the utility of Hansard as a research tool.

Challenges and Criticisms

While Hansard is an invaluable resource for understanding parliamentary proceedings, it is not without its challenges and criticisms. The verbatim nature of the report means that it can be lengthy and difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with parliamentary language and procedures. Additionally, the process of editing speeches for clarity without altering the speaker's intent can be complex.

Conclusion

Hansard is a cornerstone of parliamentary democracy, providing a transparent and detailed record of debates and proceedings. As both a historical document and a tool for current political analysis, it serves an essential function in the legislative process. By making parliamentary debates accessible to the public, Hansard helps to ensure that government remains accountable to its citizens.