‘Toeing the line’

We all see and feel the work of Parliament in our lives but what goes on behind the scenes? Peter Lilley (MP for Hitchin and Harpenden) visited 11th Hitchin (Christchurch) Scout Group on the 3rd of November to tell Cubs and Scouts about the work of Parliament and how our laws are made.

Mr Lilley visited as part of UK Parliament Week (14-20 November) and gave Cubs and Scouts an opportunity to hear about the House of Commons, the House of Lords and what really happens as laws go from an idea to reality. A fascinating evening for the Cubs and Scouts to talk with their constituency MP and we would like to thank Mr Lilley for giving up his time and coming to visit us.

If you have ever heard the phrase ‘Toe the line’ then this comes from the two red lines running lengthways down the Commons chamber. MPs are not allowed to speak from the floor of the House between these lines and if they ‘cross the line’ then the House will call from them to ‘toe the line’ and stand behind the red lines. Tradition says that these lines are two sword-lengths apart to prevent MPs duelling!