Democracy in Scotland-holding gov to account

Question 1

Ways gov can be held to account (12)

Answer 1

Voting in parliament
Taking part in committees

Question 2

E: voting in parliament

Answer 2

Voting occurs when the government proposes a new law or legislation and needs to majority of HOC in order to pass their proposal. Each MP votes on whether it benefits their constituency or nation.

Question 3

How is voting in parliament effective

Answer 3

Effective as MPs use their votes to defeat the government, forcing them to re-think and re-evaluate their policies

Question 4

Example how voting in parliament is effective

Answer 4

In 2020, Rishi Sunak suffered a parliamentary defeat as MPs voted to establish a compensatory body for victims of the infected blood scandal.

Question 5

Voting in parliament- ineffective as a result of the party whip system

Answer 5

The PWS ensures party discipline among MPs by issuing instructions on how to vote, indicated by one-line, two-line or three-line whips.

Question 6

How is voting ineffective

Answer 6

Ineffective as it compels MPs to prioritise party loyalty over independent scrutiny, diminishing their ability to challenge the government and hold it accountable for their actions.

Question 7

Example on how voting is ineffective

Answer 7

In 2024, Keir Starmer’s three-line whip rejected the SNP’s motion to scrap the two-child benefit cap; 7 Labour MPs voted differently and were suspended.

Question 8

Taking part in committees effective

Answer 8

• Committees are made up of backbench MPs/Lords with relevant skills and expertise to scrutinize legislation and can get access to expert support staff and witnesses.
• Most committees have between 10-50 members working cross-party lines.

Question 9

How taking part in committees is effective

Answer 9

• Effectively hold government to account as they have the power to investigate issues and question ministers.

Question 10

Committees effective example

Answer 10

In 2023, CPC found boris Johnson misled parliament over partycgate, leading to his resignation and showing committees can hold leaders accountable

Question 11

Committed-rebuttal

Answer 11

• Because MPs are not obligated to attend committees, and if they’re anticipating a grilling, they can choose to not attend. Also, the government isn’t required to follow committee recommendations.

Question 12

How committees is ineffective

Answer 12

Ineffective- government ministers can ignore advice and accountability, limiting committees’ power to check them.

Question 13

Committee ineffective Example

Answer 13

In 2024, Rishi Sunak’s conservative government ignored Human Rights Committee findings on the Rwanda plan and passed the bill.