How government works

United Hampshire has a central Government and Parliament. England and Havenstead are the two constituent countries of the union. England has its own devolved government, and local authorities provide services in their areas.

Government

Ministers are responsible for the work of their departments, subject to the law and constitutional arrangements. Departments and public bodies carry out their own functions.

Find a government department or public body.

Parliament

Parliament makes laws and scrutinises Government. It has its own officers and administration.

Courts and tribunals

Judges and tribunals decide cases independently. They apply the law to the cases before them.

England and local government

Hampshire County Government is responsible for England’s devolved functions. Councils and strategic authorities provide other local services. See Find your council and local services.

Challenge a decision

If you disagree with a public decision, check the decision notice for a complaint, review or appeal procedure. The procedure depends on the decision and the organisation that made it.

You can also make a freedom of information request for recorded information held by a public authority covered by the Act.