Engaging with UK Parliamentary Select Committees

Giving evidence to a Parliamentary Select Committee can be a daunting experience.

Select Committee hearings are high-profile events which can attract significant media attention. Evidence sessions expose witnesses to cross-examination by MPs or Peers, which at times can be hostile. It follows that Select Committee appearances present both personal and reputational challenges. A badly handled Select Committee appearance can cost reputations, sales and even senior level jobs. Conversely, a well-prepared appearance can be a visible platform on which to improve the profile and reputation of an individual or organisation.

As Select Committees play a growing role in policy developments and public debate, anyone appearing before a Select Committee should be fully briefed and prepared, understand how the Committee in question operates, how to engage, and what questions to expect.

Our team has a wealth of experience of advising on UK parliamentary affairs and supporting leading organisations operating in highly regulated fields.

Backed up by specialist legal and sectoral knowledge, we provide a unique and comprehensive Select Committee engagement and training service, tailor-made to support those who are asked to appear before a one in every step of the process:

Our strategy ensures that:

• you understand the political motives of the Select Committee, and of each member of the Select Committee;
• you give your best evidence to inform the Committee and answer questions competently;
• your organisation’s brand and reputation are not unwittingly damaged;
• you will prepare for the likely questions, so that you are able to answer them fully;
• you are trained to present yourself and your evidence efficiently and confidently, even under pressure; and
• the right information is reflected in written evidence and is effectively communicated to the Committee.