**What are parliamentary committees, and what functions do they serve?**
Parliamentary committees are sub-groups within legislative bodies, tasked with reviewing proposed legislation, conducting inquiries, and overseeing government activities. They serve several crucial functions, such as examining bills in detail, gathering expert testimonies, and ensuring accountability through oversight of public expenditures. Committees can be classified into various types, including standing, select, and joint committees, each focusing on specific areas like finance, foreign relations, or ethics. By allowing for in-depth scrutiny and facilitating dialogue, parliamentary committees enhance the legislative process and help ensure that policies enacted are well-informed and representative of public interests.