Mandate

Established by the Standing Orders of the House of Commons, the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (“the Committee”) is responsible for a number of procedural, and administrative matters relating to the House of Commons. This includes matters such as Private Members’ Business, questions of parliamentary privilege and review of the Standing Orders. In addition, the Committee deals with “all matters relating to the election of members to the House of Commons.” This means that issues regarding the Chief Electoral Officer, electoral legislation and electoral boundary readjustment are referred to the Committee.

The Committee acts as the striking committee for the House. The Committee reports the lists of Members to compose the standing and standing joint committees at the beginning of a Parliament, the commencement of each session, and in September of each year.

Powers

Standing Order 108(1)(a) empowers committees to examine matters referred to them by the House of Commons or as required by legislation. They can report from time to time to the House, send for persons, papers and records, and may sit while the House is sitting or adjourned.

Under Standing Order 108(3)(a), the Committee is authorized to review and report on issues including:

• the administration of the House and the provision of services and facilities to Members;
• the Standing Orders, procedure and practice in the House and its committees;
• radio and television broadcasting of the proceedings of the House and its committees;
• Private Members' Business;
• all matters relating to the election of members to the House of Commons; and
• miscellaneous other matters.

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