Question time is a tool for Parliament to hold the Government to account by, as the name suggests, asking Ministers questions.
The rules say a Minister can only be asked about what they’re responsible for so the Minister of Health for example, can’t be asked about spending on roading projects.
The Prime Minister however, is responsible for all their other Ministers and can be asked about nearly any topic.
When they're away the Deputy Prime Minister normally steps in to answer on their behalf.
Hear highlights from question time this week and how it works in the audio below.
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters answers a question to the Prime Minister from National Party Deputy Leader Paula Bennett Photo: VNP / Daniela Maoate-Cox
