2.2 The comparative powers of the House of Commons and House of Lords

Question 1

Powers and functions of the House of Commons ONLY

Answer 1

• Dismissal of a government by a vote of no confidence

Question 2

Powers and functions of both the HOC and the HOL

Answer 2

• Proposing amendments to legislation
• Debating key issues of the day
• Debating legislation and voting on legislative proposals
• Calling government and individual ministers to account
• Private members may introduce legislation of their own

Question 3

Powers and function largely of the HOL

Answer 3

• Delaying primary legislation for up to one year
• Examining secondary legislation and making recommendations for further considerations and further consideration