Many Members find the work rewarding. Committees have an impact on government policy: the most detailed academic work done on committee effectiveness suggests their work is influential both inside and outside Government. There is the further benefit in the public recognition of the work of committees and the influence that this being to their members.
Nonetheless, to participate effectively in the work of a select committee, you need to set aside time for at least one weekly meeting of probably two to three hours. You will also require reading time. A substantial number of papers will be circulated by committee staff, including, among other things:
- written evidence submissions
- briefs containing suggested questions for public evidence sessions
- oral evidence transcripts
- correspondence from ministers and others
- draft committee reports and suggested amendments to them
- government responses to those reports