CROSSBENCH Meaning and
Definition
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A crossbench refers to the area or seating arrangement in a parliamentary chamber where non-aligned or independent Members of Parliament (MPs) sit. It can also be used to describe these independent MPs themselves. Typically, the crossbench consists of individuals who do not belong to any particular political party and do not align themselves with the government or opposition. They may have been elected as independents or have chosen to sit as such during their time in parliament.
Crossbenchers play a unique role in the legislative process, as they are not bound by party discipline or obligated to vote along party lines. This allows them to exercise their independence and pursue their own ideologies or constituents' interests. Crossbench MPs often provide an alternative voice in parliament and can contribute to an inclusive and diverse range of perspectives and proposals.
In addition to their role in debates and deliberations, crossbenchers may also be appointed to serve on committees or inquire into specific issues. Their distinct position allows them to scrutinize government policies and legislation from a non-partisan standpoint, providing a check on the power of the ruling party.
Overall, the crossbench represents a space and group of MPs, independent of party politics, who contribute to the democratic process by offering different viewpoints, maintaining checks and balances, and representing alternative interests.
Common Misspellings for CROSSBENCH
- xrossbench
- vrossbench
- frossbench
- drossbench
- ceossbench
- cdossbench
- cfossbench
- ctossbench
- c5ossbench
- c4ossbench
- crissbench
- crkssbench
- crlssbench
- crpssbench
- cr0ssbench
- cr9ssbench
- croasbench
- crozsbench
- croxsbench
Etymology of CROSSBENCH
The word "crossbench" originates from the practice of benches being arranged in a cross-shape in the British Parliament. The word is a compound of "cross" and "bench", referring to the seating arrangement in the House of Lords or House of Commons. Members who do not belong to any political party sit on these crossbenches, hence the term "crossbenchers" to describe these independent or non-affiliated members. The term itself has been in use since the 19th century to describe these unaligned members of the parliament.
Similar spelling words for CROSSBENCH
- crossbred,
- cross bench,
- crossbar,
- crossbreed,
- crossbill,
- crossfield,
- crosspatch,
- cross bun,
- crosspiece,
- cryoscope,
- Crosbie,
- crossbones,
- crossbencher,
- crossbow,
- crossfire,
- crossover,
- crossbeam.
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