2.1 The structure and role of the House of Commons and House of Lords Flashcards
1
Q
What is the House of Commons
A
Primary chamber of the UK legislature, directly elected by voters.
2
Q
What is the House of Lords?
A
The second chamber of the UK legislature, not directly elected by voters.
3
Q
How are MPs elected?
A
FPTP
4
Q
How many MPs are there in House of Commons?
A
650.
5
Q
What is the Fixed Term Parliament Act (2011)?
A
General elections are supposed to be held at regularly intervals, at the end of a fixed 5-year parliamentary term.
6
Q
How can an early general election be held?
A
Two possible situations:
- If govt loses vote of no confidence and the PM can’t form. another administration within 14 days - or 2/3 of MPs support a motion calling for an early election
- Theresa May called an early election for June 2017 with the support of the necessary proportion
7
Q
What happens if an MP dies or retires during a term?
A
The vacancy is filled by holding a by-election in that constituency.
