Hansard

The Hansard is a full and complete record of everything said and done in Parliament. Its importance lies in the fact that it is the storage of the image of the legislature, a reflection of its stature which is measured by the quality of its debates. It serves as a collection of parliamentary procedure, passage of laws, practices, conventions and their usage.

During the proceedings in the House, documentation of all the contributions from the Members of Parliament have to be captured and produced in the Hansard. the Hansard is one of the most critical documents that is referred to from time to time to capture the spirit of the House when motions, bills and laws are being formulated. It is an indispensable aid for members and others within the house and for those outside it who need a clear, accurate and independent account of the proceedings.

The Hansard is also useful in the interpretation of statutes since it serve as a source of the legislative history of laws passed in Parliament. The intentions of the lawmakers can also be inferred from the Hansard.

It equally serves as an assessment, training and a research tool and as a means to demand accountability from MPs to their constituents because voices and statements of the MPs are largely regarded as the views of their constituents.

It includes votes, written statements and written answers to questions. Members’ words are recorded by the Hansard department and then edited to remove repetitions and obvious mistakes without taking away the meaning.  The reports are then published shortly after the chamber or committee proceedings have concluded for the access of members of the house as well as the general public.

Copies of the Hansard are available in Parliament.