Private Member

American  

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a member of a legislative body, especially of the House of Commons, who has no special duties and is not a member of the ministry.

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private member British  

noun

1. a member of a legislative assembly, such as the House of Commons, not having an appointment in the government

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Etymology

Origin of Private Member

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

As a private member's bill, the proposal does not reflect government policy and is unlikely to become law - but it could shape parliamentary debates.

From BBC

It is known as a private member's bill because it was put forward by a backbench MP rather than the government.

From BBC

However, experts say this would be unprecedented for a private member's bill and challenging to implement.

From BBC

The option which was presented most positively is that of a private member's bill - a piece of legislation introduced by a backbench MP.

From BBC

Her spokesman said neither she nor anybody on her behalf had any discussions with Downing Street or party leaders before she decided to adopt assisted dying as the subject of her private member's bill.

From BBC