Hansard meaning

Hansard is the official record of parliamentary debates and discussions.


Hansard definitions

Word backwards drasnaH
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division Han-sard
Plural The plural of the word "Hansard" is "Hansards."
Total letters 7
Vogais (1) a
Consonants (5) h,n,s,r,d

Hansard: A Comprehensive Guide

Hansard is the name given to the official verbatim report of debates in the Parliament of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries. It provides a detailed record of everything said in the chamber, including speeches, questions, answers, and other proceedings.

History of Hansard

The name "Hansard" comes from Thomas Curson Hansard, who was the original printer of the parliamentary debates in the early 19th century. Over time, the term "Hansard" has become synonymous with the official record of parliamentary proceedings in various countries.

Importance of Hansard

Hansard plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in government. It allows the public to access and review the exact words spoken by politicians during debates, making it an essential tool for democracy.

Accessing Hansard

In the digital age, Hansard is readily available online, making it easier for researchers, journalists, and the general public to search for specific information or track the progress of particular legislative issues. The official Hansard website provides access to archives dating back to the early 19th century.

Uses of Hansard

Researchers often rely on Hansard to understand the historical context of laws and policies, as well as to analyze trends in parliamentary debates over time. Journalists use Hansard to fact-check statements made by politicians and report accurately on government activities.

Challenges and Limitations

While Hansard strives for accuracy and completeness, it is essential to remember that it is a record of spoken words and may not capture nuances such as tone of voice or body language. Additionally, debates can sometimes be edited for clarity or brevity, raising concerns about the potential for misrepresentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hansard serves as a valuable resource for understanding the workings of government and holding elected officials accountable for their words and actions. By providing a detailed and reliable record of parliamentary debates, Hansard plays a vital role in promoting transparency and democracy.


Hansard Examples

  1. The Hansard records all parliamentary debates and proceedings.
  2. Researchers often refer to the Hansard when studying historical legislative decisions.
  3. Politicians use the Hansard to verify statements made during parliamentary sessions.
  4. Legal professionals may cite the Hansard when interpreting statutes.
  5. Students studying political science are encouraged to analyze the Hansard for insights into the political process.
  6. The Hansard provides a detailed account of questions asked and answers given during question time in parliament.
  7. Government officials use the Hansard to track changes in public policy over time.
  8. Media outlets sometimes quote from the Hansard in news reports on legislative matters.
  9. The Hansard is a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of political discourse in a country.
  10. Researchers analyze trends in language usage in the Hansard to study shifts in political rhetoric.


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  • Updated 31/03/2024 - 07:54:17