Whips are members of a political party who act like a team manager for their party in the Parliament. They help to organise their party, so party members know what is happening each day and when they may be needed to speak in the Chamber. Whips are important in making sure all their members are present to vote and they count and record votes during a division.

The name “whip” is an old term that comes from England and relates to fox hunting. A “whipper-in” was the person who kept the hunting dogs in a pack, and made sure they were heading in the right direction. Since the 17th century the word "whip" has meant a Member of Parliament who keeps their group united and in line.