Parliamentary questions can be asked by any MSP who is not a member of the government. They provide a means for MSPs to get information from the Scottish Government. They are a critical part of the work of the Parliament.
There are two types of parliamentary question:
- Written questions, which receive a written response
- Oral questions, such as Topical Questions, which are answered in the Debating Chamber
This introduction is intended for a general user. More detailed information about parliamentary questions can be found in the Parliament rules and guidance section.
Parliamentary questions must:
- relate to a matter for which Scottish Government has general responsibility. Or in the case of SPCB Questions, a matter for which the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body is responsible
- be brief, clearly worded and address specific points
- be in English
- not contain offensive language
- not express a point of view
- not disclose information that is protected by an interdict or court order, commercially sensitive or confidential, or liable to cause personal distress or loss
- not refer to any matter in relation to which legal proceedings are active, except with the permission of the Presiding Officer
- not seek information that has been provided in response to a question in the last six months