Main functions of political parties

Question 1

Shaping policies

Answer 1

• Parties develop gov through manifesto
• They formulate a set of policies electorate can choose from

Question 2

Recruiting leaders

Answer 2

• Senior political careers start from choice to join a party
• Nomination as parliament candidate could lead to position on the cabinet

Question 3

Forming governments

Answer 3

• Relies on parties in many ways
• Help form the gov meaning the UK system has ‘party gov’
• Provides source of opposition

Question 4

Participation and mobilisation

Answer 4

• Help educate electorates through campaigns
• Provide opportunities for citizens to join parties to also shape policies

Question 5

Representation

Answer 5

• Main function is to represent electorate
• Major parties are “catch all” parties winning party have popular mandate