Prime Minister’s Questions: 4 September 2013

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Prime Minister’s Question Time

Question Time in the House of Commons is an opportunity for MPs to question government ministers about matters for which they are responsible.

Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday that the House of Commons is sitting and gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister.

In most cases, the session starts with a routine 'open question' from an MP about the Prime Minister's engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

Opposition MPs follow up on this or another topic, usually led by the Leader of the Opposition, Edward Miliband. Usually, he is the only MP allowed to come back with further questions.

Watching Prime Minister's Questions from the public gallery

UK residents and overseas visitors can watch proceedings in the House of Commons by visiting the public gallery.

Because it is so popular, free tickets are necessary to ensure entrance to watch Prime Minister's Questions.  These are only issued to UK residents who contact their MP to request them in advance.

Overseas visitors and UK residents without tickets can queue but will only gain entrance if there is space after ticket-holders.

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This article was produced by the Commons Digital Outreach Team. Follow the @HouseofCommons on Twitter for updates on the UK House of Commons Chamber.