The primary role of the Official Opposition, as well as other, smaller opposition parties and Independent Members, is to question government actions, to present alternatives to government positions, and to provide the option of an alternative government.
The opposition enjoys privileges and duties well established by tradition. The floor of the Legislative Chamber provides opposition MLAs with a key area in which to perform their role, which is to scrutinize the policies and actions of the government. Opportunities for the opposition to perform their unique role include Oral Question Period and the two major debates: the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne and the budget. Debates on proposed legislation also give the opposition the chance to scrutinize the government and put forward amendments to bills. During the Estimates debates on proposed government expenditures (also known as the Committee of Supply), opposition Members will pose detailed questions on ministry spending plans for the upcoming fiscal year.
Opposition parties also work to communicate their views to British Columbians and to establish an identity as a possible alternative government. The opposition holds an important role in the Legislative Assembly and contributes to the effectiveness of British Columbia's parliamentary democracy by monitoring Cabinet and encouraging the government to act prudently and with accountability.
