House of Commons Chamber
The historic roots of the House of Commons are reflected in the design of the Chamber which is far more modest than that of the Lord's Chamber.
Proceedings are controlled by the Speaker, who is seated on a raised chair at one end of the Chamber with the Government Party to his right and Opposition Party to his left.
The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition sit opposite each other and alongside other 'Frontbenchers', who play more prominent roles in their respective parties. Other members are often referred to as 'Backbenchers'.
The Chamber is relatively small, given the number of members, with a shortfall of some 200 seats when the house is full and members have to stand and find space elsewhere.
