comparing congress and parliament Flashcards
how is the composition of the US and UK different?
USA: representation reflection of federal system, based on 50 states. in the senate equal representation regardless of population. representatives based on population of state
UK: parliament MPs represent constituencies based on counties. the lords reflect nature of lords barons and earls and bishops.
how is the legislative process different in the US and UK?
USA: both houses of congress have equal power, both houses must agree on final version of bill, legislation is passed by congress, state of union address is what hopes to achieve.
UK: House of Commons is senior house as they are elected body and lords are not, the commons also has final say on the bill as there are elected and usually get their way. legislation is passed through parliament as the PM has majority and gets what it wants. queens speech is what will be achieved
what are the differences between oversight of US and UK?
USA separation of powers means that congress cannot directly scrutinise the president, but does however have greater power in impeaching a president and approving appointments.
in the UK fusion of powers means that the PM can be held to account by parliament through PMQs and select committees
Which body has more power to check the Executive, Congress or Parliament?
Congress arguably has greater powers than Parliament, as it has the power to ratify treaties, impeach a President, approve appointments and introduce legislation of its own accord.
How is representation of constituents different in UK and USA?
in the UK MPs are more likely to vote along party lines and put interest of the party above constituents.
In the US representatives are more likely to vote with constituents as they are more frequently elected (every 2 years) and so have to remain favourable
What are strengths and weaknesses of the House of Representatives?
Strengths: can draw up impeachment articles, strong constituency links and accountability with 2 year term, has first consideration of money bills.
Weaknesses: Exec members cannot appear in this chamber (only standing committees), President unaccountable to Congress, gridlock under divided government.
What are strengths and weaknesses of the House of Commons?
Strengths: has Exec presence for scrutiny, select committees conduct scrutiny, PMQs, backbenchers have power.
Weaknesses: is dominated by government, PMQs ineffective at holding govt to account, party strength undermines constituency representation.
What are strengths and weaknesses of the Senate?
Strengths: has powers to obstruct Exec actions (impeachment trials, treaties, appointments), equal powers to the House.
Weaknesses: Exec members cannot appear on floor (only committees), gridlock created by equal legislative powers, unaccountable over 6 years.
What strengths and weaknesses are there of the House of Lords?
Strengths: allow experience and expertise to scrutinise govt, less partisan than the Commons, not subject to pressures of election, cannot veto elected Commons.
Weaknesses: lacks democratic mandate, only delays rather than blocks legislation, seen as chamber of elites and political failures.
