Evaluate the view that minor parties play an insignificant role in UK politics Flashcards
Point 1: How can minor parties influence national policies?
Minor parties can influence national policies and debates.
UKIP’s popularity pressured the Conservatives to hold the Brexit referendum in 2016. The Green Party raised climate change as a central political issue, influencing both major parties’ manifestos.
Counterpoint: What is a counterpoint to the influence of minor parties?
Their influence is short-lived and often issue-specific.
After the Brexit referendum, UKIP’s vote share collapsed, and it lost its single parliamentary seat. The Green Party has one MP in Westminster, limiting its ability to pass meaningful legislation.
Point 2: In which areas do minor parties dominate?
Minor parties dominate in devolved governments.
The SNP leads the Scottish Government, passing policies like free university tuition and opposing Brexit. Plaid Cymru plays a significant role in Wales, focusing on Welsh language protection and advocating for independence.
Counterpoint: What is a counterpoint to the dominance of minor parties in devolved governments?
Their influence is limited to devolved areas.
The SNP has 44 seats in Westminster, but its ability to influence UK-wide policies is constrained. Plaid Cymru only holds 4 seats in Westminster, restricting its impact on national decisions.
Point 3: How are minor parties pivotal in coalition or confidence agreements?
Minor parties are pivotal in coalition or confidence agreements.
The Liberal Democrats played a key role in the 2010 coalition government, securing the AV referendum. The DUP’s confidence and supply agreement with the Conservatives in 2017 secured £1 billion in additional funding for Northern Ireland.
Counterpoint: What is a counterpoint to the role of minor parties in coalition agreements?
Coalition agreements often damage minor parties in the long term.
The Liberal Democrats suffered significant electoral losses in 2015 after backlash over tuition fees. The DUP’s influence in 2017 did not translate into long-term success, as its vote share fell in subsequent elections.
