From: "Dave Ings" 

> There are no checks and balances in the parliamentary system, none.

That's a bit dogmatic. They are different from the American system, but
they are very real. Just ask Margaret Thatcher, who was deposed from within
once she overstayed her welcome. Or any leader in Canada who has had to
govern with a minority in Parliament (as Paul Martin is doing now).

> The "questioning" is amusing, sometimes good theater, but ultimately
> pointless since it accomplishes nothing and by the very nature of the
> system cannot possibly accomplish anything.

What it accomplishes, as far as any such thing is possible, is forcing a
dynamic and public form of accountability. Parliamentary politicians don't
actually enjoy having to stand up in Question Period and field awkward
questions for broadcast later that evening, but they accept it as a
valuable part of the institution.

Dave Ings

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