On Legislatures and Societal Change: The Netherlands and the United Kingdom

In: Acta politica: AP ; international journal of political science ; official journal of the Dutch Political Science Association (Nederlandse Kring voor Wetenschap der Politiek), Band 17, Heft 2, S. 205-230

Abstract

An examination of how the Dutch & British parliaments have adapted to societal change in the twentieth century. The growth of the public sector & legislative responses to it are examined. In neither country has there been an increase in the amount of legislation enacted commensurate with the growth of the public sector; however, new legislation has had a cumulative effect on the old & there has been increased reliance on the delegation of administrative authority. The Dutch parliament has adapted to social change by establishing a number of specialized committees to process individual bills; the Dutch chamber has thus been transformed into a parliament of specialists. In contrast, very little change has taken place in the English House of Commons; the limited change permitted has not kept pace with societal changes. Historical, cultural, & structural reasons are advanced as to why the two legislatures have reacted so differently to comparable environmental stimuli. 6 Tables. Modified HA.