Resolutions are only part of the activities. There are also committees; they are appointed to examine particular proposals for new laws.  The Permanent committees consist of 40 members who are formed to reflect the relative strengths of the parties in the Commons as a whole. They investigate the activities of government in a particular field. They have the power to call certain people, such as civil servants, to come and answer their questions. They are becoming a more important part of the business of the Commons.