On 15th March, Parliament is giving members of the public the chance to quiz Parliamentary experts about how MPs and Peers examine and discuss science and technology issues.

'Parliament Talks...Science' is the first of a new series of subject-specific events held around the UK, highlighting Parliament's role in scrutinising public policy and holding the Government to account.

This event includes a series of short talks from experts and a debate on the effectiveness of Parliament in tackling science issues. The audience will also have the opportunity to ask questions and find out how they can make their voice heard on science and technology matters.

Andrew Miller MP, Chair of the House of Commons Science & Technology Committee, said: "Parliament Talks...Science is an excellent opportunity for the public to learn about how Parliament engages with science and how they can connect with the House of Commons and House of Lords on scientific issues."

Lord Krebs, Chairman of the House of Lords Science & Technology Committee, said: "Scientific evidence underpins many of the key policies, from climate change to food security, from energy production to economic growth via high tech industries, from infectious diseases to electronic communications. Parliament plays a crucial role in scrutinising policy and legislation, and in raising awareness of important issues. Parliament Talks...Science is a chance for people to learn about how both Houses of Parliament bring science to the fore when they debate and scrutinise policies and legislation."

Hosted by the Houses of Parliament Outreach Service and the University of Leeds as part of the Leeds Festival of Science, 'Parliament Talks...Science' features specialist speakers from the influential House of Commons and House of Lords Science and Technology Committees. Representatives from the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) will also be on hand to offer their insight into how Parliament approaches scientific issues.

For people unable to make it along to the event, 'Parliament Talks...Science' information packs will be available from the Houses of Parliament Outreach Service, summarising Parliament's scientific-related activities and explaining how people can get involved.

For more information visit www.parliament.uk/talks-science or email parliamentaryoutreach@parliament.uk