Committee of Privileges

Privileges scrutinises breaches of parliamentary privilege and contempts of Parliament, protecting the rights and immunities of Members. Operating as a Commons select committee, it investigates complaints and can take oral evidence from witnesses. The committee examines matters affecting the dignity and functioning of the House. In November 2025, the committee analysed a privilege case involving the Charity Commission and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, considering how the actions of these external bodies may have infringed parliamentary privilege. This inquiry reflects the committee's role in monitoring whether public institutions respect the constitutional protections afforded to Parliament and its Members. Such cases form part of the committee's wider remit to uphold parliamentary privilege standards.