British political system Flashcards
What is democracy ?
Democracy is a form of government in which sate power is vested in the people or the general population.
why is the UK a Parliament Democracy ?
this is because the government is voted into power by the people to act in their interests. (power of the people).
why is the UK a constitutional Monarchy ?
this is because, although the monarch has limited power. They act as the head of state meaning they represent the UK.
parliament is divided into two houses, what are they called ?
The house of common, and the house of lords.
what do both the HOC and HOL do ?
Both make laws, scrutinize government and debate current issues.
why so we have this two chamber system ?
it is designed to act as a check and balance for both houses
the government is divided into three sections, what are they called ?
the executive, legislature and judiciary.
what is the executive ?
-this branch of government is made up of the prime minister and cabinet.
- it is their job to lead the government and purpose new legislation or law.
what is Legislature ?
- made up of two house of parliament (HOC & HOL).
- here they discuss/debate, amend and accept or even reject new legislation suggested by the executive.
what dose the house of commons do ?
The HOC is made up of MPs who are elected by us.
it is their job to decide what legislation gets passed, authorize taxes and hold the government to account.
what dose the house of lords ?
the HOL is made up of peers who are appointed by the king or queen on advise from the prime minister.
it is their job to be specialist’s in certain areas, so they scrutinize bills.
what is the judiciary ?
judiciary is comprise of a system of courts that implement the laws that are passed down by parliament.
for day-to-day activities, each one is headed by a minister from the PMs cabinet.
