Influences on Parliament (P2) Flashcards
What is meant by political influence?
When there is a general election all the political parties publish a list of the reforms they would carry out if elected. This is called the party’s manifesto.
Advantages of political influence
-If elected they already know what to do
-Highly likely all laws will be passed
Disadvantages of political influence
-If a different party is elected they may decide to repeal or alter some of the laws passed by the previous government.
-If the government has a very small majority it may restrict what laws they can get passed in Parliament.
What is meant by public opinion/media?
Where there is a strong public opinion about a change to the law, the government may bow to such opinion.
Advantages of public opinion/media
-Sometimes affected by specific events for example the Sarah Payne case.
-We have free press, they can criticise the government policy or bring any issues to the attention of the government.
Disadvantages of public opinion/media
-‘Knee-jerk reaction (Dangerous Dogs Act 1991)
-Media can manipulate the news and create public opinion
What are pressure groups & and what are the two types?
Groups who have a specific interest. They try to bring matters they are interested in to the attention of the general public and government.
Sectional pressure groups: a pressure group that represents the interests of a particular group of people.
Cause pressure groups: a pressure group that exists to promote a particular cause.
Advantages of pressure groups
-Raise important issues
-Wide range of issues is drawn to the attention of Parliament
Disadvantages of pressure groups
-Trying to impose their will on the majority
-Pressure groups may have conflicting interests
What is meant by lobbying?
Some pressure groups try to persuade individual MPs to support their cause .
