Legal Definitions - Hansard

Definition: Hansard is the official record of debates that take place in the British Parliament. It is named after Luke Hansard, who was the printer of the Journal of the House of Commons from 1774 to 1828. The name has changed over time, but since 1943 it has been known as Hansard Official Report.

Examples: When Members of Parliament speak in the House of Commons or the House of Lords, their words are recorded in Hansard. These records are then published and made available to the public. For example, if you wanted to know what was said during a debate about a particular issue, you could look it up in Hansard.

Explanation: Hansard is important because it allows people to see what their elected representatives are saying and doing in Parliament. It also provides a historical record of important debates and decisions that have been made. By looking at Hansard, people can see how laws are made and how the government works.