1. The British Political System c1783 Flashcards
Asa Briggs quote
“No single member held power in isolation”
Describes the electorate as “small, infrequently called on to vote and amenable to pressure”
Refers to ministers as “agents of the King”
Describe the term patronage, and how it was used in the King’s favour
King could make appointments to the House of Lords and reward loyalty
What powers did the King still have over Parliament?
Could veto legislation, choose and dismiss his ministers, summon and dissolve Parliament- but a general election had to be called (could not rule without it)
When was the Bill of Rights passed?
1689 following the Glorious Revolution.
What did the Bill of Rights state?
A monarch could not rule without Parliament, Parliament dealt with laws and taxes
What Prime Minister resigned in 1782, and why?
Lord North over the loss of the American Colonies
Who was appointed as Prime Minister in 1782, following North’s resignation?
Lord Rockingham
Who was appointed as Prime Minister in 1782 following Rockingham’s death?
Lord Shelburne
Who was appointed Prime Minister following Lord Shelburne, and why?
The Duke of Portland at the head of a government run by the North-Fox Coalition
How many men could vote in England and Wales by 1783?`
250,000 (out of a population of 9.4 million in 1801 census)
