Select committees are specialized parliamentary committees that are formed to investigate specific issues or topics. They are created for a limited period of time and are endowed with special powers to conduct inquiries, call witnesses, and gather evidence. There are several synonyms for the term select committees, including 'ad hoc committees', 'special committees', 'investigative committees', and 'standing committees'. Ad hoc committees are set up on a temporary basis to address a particular issue, while standing committees are permanent committees that are established at the beginning of each parliamentary session. Investigative committees and special committees are committees that examine specific issues and report back to parliament. Regardless of the terminology used, select committees play a vital role in ensuring democracy and transparency within parliamentary democracies.