This guide explains your role, your powers and how to take part in Parliament in a clear and practical way.

1. Your Role as an MP

As a Member of Parliament, you are elected to act on behalf of the people. Your role has three main parts:

• Represent the views and interests of citizens
• Help create, change or remove laws
• Hold the Government to account

Parliament is always active. There are no fixed sittings or schedules. You can take part whenever you are available.

This means you do not need permission to speak or act. If something matters, you can raise it.

2. Your Powers

All Members have equal authority in Parliament. You are free to take initiative and contribute in several ways.

Proposing laws (Bills)

You can introduce a Bill at any time. A Bill is a proposal for a law.

A good Bill is clear and easy to understand. It should explain what it is trying to achieve and how it will work.

Example:

Bill: Bread Act
Purpose: To restrict the sale of bread in certain situations and to tax it

Provisions:

1. The Government must require shops to be licenced in order to sell bread
2. Tax shall be payable to the Government on bread

You do not need perfect wording. Other Members can help improve it.

Starting discussions (Informal proposals)

If you are unsure about an idea, you can start with an informal proposal. This allows others to give feedback before you turn it into a Bill.

Example:

Informal proposal: Should we restrict the sale of bread and let the Government tax it?

I think this could help with the current bread crisis, what do you think?

If there is clear support, the Speaker or one of the Deputy Speakers may help turn it into a Bill.

Asking questions to the Government

You have the right to ask the Government questions about policy, actions or decisions.

Enquiry to Government: What steps are being taken to resolve the current bread crisis?

These questions help ensure transparency and accountability. You should consider @pinging a Government official that is responsible for the topic of your question.

If you’re unsure who this is, you may ping the Prime Minister or the Government role.

Taking part in debate

You can join any discussion. You can support, oppose or suggest changes.

Good examples:

I support this, but I think we should trial it first.

I agree with the aim, but it could increase the cost of bread for consumers. Could we make the process simpler?

Debate should move ideas forward, not shut them down.

Working in committees

Committees are smaller groups that look into specific issues in detail.

They may:

• Gather information
• Invite people to give input
• Produce reports

If you are part of a committee, take time to engage properly and contribute.

Considering petitions

Petitions allow citizens to raise issues directly.

If a petition reaches the required level of support, Parliament must consider it.

Example:

This petition has reached the threshold. I suggest we begin discussion on how to respond.

3. Where Things Happen (Discord Use)

Parliament works through Discord. Knowing where to post is important.

#parl-floor

This is the main parliamentary space. It is public and represents the official chamber.

Use it for:

• Bills
• Debates
• Enquiries
• Formal proposals

Treat this space with respect. It should remain clear and focused.

#parl-informal

This is the working space for collaboration.

Use it for:

• Drafting Bills
• Editing documents
• Asking for help
• Brainstorming ideas

If you are unsure how to format something or need help preparing a proposal, ask here.

4. Sharing Resources and Documents

Any documents shared on the floor should be in PDF format. This ensures consistency and prevents unwanted editing.

If you are unsure how to convert or prepare a document as a PDF, ask the Speaker or a Deputy Speaker in #parl-informal.

Asking for help on the floor is not against the rules, but it should be avoided where possible to keep the space clear and focused.

Example:

Could someone check this draft before I post it as a PDF?

This should be asked in #parl-informal, not on the floor.

5. How to Introduce a Bill

A Bill does not need to be complex. Clear and simple is better.

Basic approach:

• Give it a title
• Explain its purpose
• Set out what it does

Example:

Bill: Catfish Restriction Act
Purpose: To prohibit catfish from being introduced to the nation.

Provisions:

1. Bans catfish in the Hokorian State
2. Allows the Government to fine people who break the law
3. Allows the Government to cull any catfish in Hokoria

You should attach the Bill document.

After posting, invite feedback:

I welcome comments or suggested improvements.

6. How Debate Works

Debate is open and flexible. Multiple discussions may happen at once.

You can join in at any time. There is no speaking order unless the Speaker decides one is needed.

Good practice:

• Stay on topic
• Be clear and constructive
• Respond to points made by others

Example:

I understand the aim, but I am concerned about cost. Could we test this in one province first?

7. Standards of Conduct

Parliament should feel professional but not rigid. A relaxed tone is fine, but respect is essential.

You are expected to:

• Act with honesty and integrity
• Respect other Members
• Avoid personal attacks
• Contribute meaningfully

Good example:

I disagree with this approach, but I see why it was suggested.

Poor example:

This is a terrible idea and a waste of time.

8. Working with the Speaker (Koru)

The Speaker, known as the Koru, oversees Parliament.

Their role is to:

• Maintain order
• Keep discussions clear
• Step in if needed

Deputy Speakers may assist.

When acting as Speaker, they must remain neutral. Follow their guidance when given.

9. Elections and Your Position

Parliament has 7 Members.

• Each term lasts three months
• You may stand for re-election without limit
• If a seat becomes vacant, a by-election is held

Before acting as an MP, you must take the oath. Without it, you cannot take part.

10. Responsibility and Removal

Your position carries responsibility.

You may be removed by the Court if you:

• Abuse your role
• Commit serious offences
• Fail to carry out your duties

This ensures trust in Parliament is maintained.

11. Practical Advice

Start by taking part in discussions. You do not need to rush into writing laws.

Test ideas through informal proposals.

Work with others. Collaboration often leads to better outcomes.

Example:

I have an idea for improving the petitions system for people not in the Discord server. Would anyone like to help develop it?

Stay active where you can. Even small contributions are valuable.

12. A Simple Example of How Things Work

1. You post in #parl-floor: “Informal proposal: Should we reduce university tuition fees?”
2. Members respond and discuss
3. You move to #parl-informal to draft a Bill with others
4. You return to #parl-floor with a PDF Bill: “Bill: Tuition Fee Reduction Act”
5. Debate continues
6. The Bill moves towards a decision

13. Final Note

Being an MP is about participation and judgement.

You are not expected to know everything. You are expected to engage, listen and act in good faith.

If you are unsure, ask in the right place and take the first step.