More actions
The Parliament of the Balancín Kingdoms is the legislative body of the Balancín Kingdoms, having been assembled by King Maximilian the Crusader in August 3023. Meeting at the Palace of Belemadena in Rockfield, Parliament has legislative authority within the Balancín Kingdoms. However, its authority is not supreme, with it drawing its constitutional function from the consent of the King.
Parliament is technically bicameral, but it exists in three parts: the sovereign (King-in-Parliament), the King's Courts (house of nobility), and the General Courts (lower house). The power of Parliament is divided between the two houses, with the lower house, the General Courts, having the only democratic elections in the Balancín Kingdoms.
The General Courts is partially elected, with half of its seats being selected through first-past-the-post election. The other half of seats represent particular interest groups and sectors of society that contribute to its function and require civic representation. For example, seats are granted to the University of Southern Bonitana, the Rockfield Harbour, and other centres of learning, culture, and charity.
The King's Court is the house of nobility. A peerage, which refers to membership of the King's Court, is granted to anybody who legally holds a noble title above that of an Earl. Peers of the Balancín Kingdoms represent the highest form of nobility. Membership is not granted to courtesy titles, nor knights or barons. Membership is also granted to clergymen of the Pontifical Church in the Kingdoms that hold the title of Bishop or higher. Given the scope of membership of the King's Court, decisions by the Court is often by acclamation or consensus.
Acts of Parliament, which make the laws of the Balancín Kingdoms, can only be ratified into law by a vote of both houses and assent of the King. Legislation can be introduced by any Peer (member of the King's Court) or M.P. (member of the General Courts). However, in order to be considered by the other chamber
Parliaments summoned
The following is a list of the Parliaments summoned by reign.
The reign of King Maximilian II
- The Partial Parliament of 3024
- The Second Parliament of 3024 (to be elected)