4.2 Relationship between the Executive and Parliament

Question 1

Outline limits placed on the House Of Lords

Answer 1

• Parliament Act 1911
• Parliament Act 1949
• Salisbury Convention

Question 2

How does the Parliament Act 1911 place limits on the HOL?

Answer 2

• Prevented the HOL having control over government spending and tax
• A law passed in the HOC in two consecutive years cannot be blocked by the Lords

Question 3

How does the Parliament Act 1949, limit the HOL?

Answer 3

HOL may only delay for up to one year with some justification

Question 4

How does the Salisbury Convention limit the HOL?

Answer 4

HOL must not block any legislation that is in winning government’s election manifesto

Question 5

How does Parliament have control over the executive?

Answer 5

1) Amendments to legislation
2) Accountability and scrutiny: PMQ; QT; Select committees
3) Vote of no confidence and the calling of a general election
4) The threat of backbench rebellion
5) HOL may defy the Salisbury Convention
6) Widespread parliamentary opposition may pressure a govt into withdrawing proposed legislation