The National Parliamentary Debate Association (NPDA) is the largest parliamentary debate league in the world. Participants compete in teams of two and rely on general knowledge, understanding of current events, and quick wits to win rounds, since the topic of debate is only released fifteen minutes before each round and changes with each new set of opponents.

PHC’s strong academic environment supplies students with ready lines of argument and the wit to employ them style and grace. The College keeps its parliamentary squad at 6-12 students, since it is too costly to transport a large team to faraway tournaments. Thus, those wishing to join the Parli team must submit an application.

Parliamentary rounds are loosely based on British debate forms. There is no prep time once in the round and no cross-examinations. Instead, teams (“Government” or “Opposition”) are allowed to stand and ask “points of information” or make “points of order” according to limited parliamentary rules. Speakers have “the floor” and are referred to as the Prime Minister, member of government, member of opposition, or leader of opposition. In the most formal rounds, the judge will act as “chair” and address speakers in formal language.