Influences on the Law Making Process

Question 1

examples of influences that can affect the law making process

Answer 1

• Political influence
• Public opinion & media
• Pressure groups
• Law reform bodies

Question 2

political influence

Answer 2

Parties outline proposed changes in manifestos to persuade voters before elections. The winning party forms the government for about five years until the next election. eg. Conservatives pledge to stop foreign national offenders; Labour pledges automatic right to remain for EU nationals.

Question 3

advantages of political influence on law

Answer 3

Political parties have their policies ready at the time of election, so they can begin implementing laws straight away if elected

Question 4

disadvantages of political influence on law

Answer 4

If a different party is elected at the next election, the can repeal or alter previous laws, this could be costly

Question 5

public opinion and media

Answer 5

Govs may bend to public pressure eg. close to elections. example: free school meals debate, public outcry. campaigns led by Marcus Rashford, led MPs to reverse decision to remove free school meals.

Question 6

pressure groups

Answer 6

Pressure groups lobby MPs in the House of Commons and may push backbenchers to introduce Bills, but success in lawmaking is rare.

Question 7

advantages of pressure groups influencing the law making process

Answer 7

Represents diverse voices
Holds lawmakers accountable
Promoting democratic participation

Question 8

disadvantages of pressure groups influencing the law making process

Answer 8

Limited diversity of perspectives and stifled debate
Disregard for minority views and social inequalities
Erosion of trust in government/democratic institutions.

Question 9

law reform bodies

Answer 9

The Law Commission (legal experts) identify areas for law reform, consults stakeholders, issues reports, and propose draft Bills. Parliament typically follows their recommendations.

Question 10

positive impacts of law commission

Answer 10

Research is done by experts
Consultations are done before suggesting improvements

Question 11

negatives of law commission

Answer 11

Government doesn’t have to implement the proposals
The Law commission can’t make political changes, only legal changes