Monarchy Flashcards
What is a Constitutional Monarchy?
The monarch reigns but does not rule - ministers rule in his name
Monarch is:
Moral leader
Ceremonial
Head of State
Head of Commonwealth
What conventions must the monarch adhere to?
Abide by party system
Show absolute impartiality in choosing ministers
Take advise from relevant minister before acting - royal perogrative exercised on advice of PM, and enacted.carried out by Ministers/PM
What powers does the monarch have under the royal prerogative?
Appointing PM
Appointing Ministers
Dissolution and prorogation of parliament
Dismissal of govt.
King’s Speech
Declaration of war and international treaties
Approve legislation
Royal pardon
Granting peerages
Granting honours
Granting patronage
Power to advise, encourage and warn - weekly audiences
(powers mean nothing as ministers tell monarch what to do, but parliament has no power to overturn King’s powers exercised by ministers/PM)
What are the main sources of funding for the monarchy?
Sovereign Grant - income from govt. treasury, used to pay for official duties e.g. royal events
Privy Purse - income from Duchy of Lancaster, for royal expenditure
Crown Estate- manages property holdings owned by monarch (not personal property)
What local contacts would you approach with quotes on the monarchy?
Lord Lietuenant of the County
Someone recently attending palace (honours, garden party)
Vox pop (pensioners and youths)
Rep. of charity which monarchy is patron
Constitutional academic
Outline some pros and cons regarding the monarchy?
Perpetuates class division
Anti-roman Catholic senitments
Cost of monarchy
No real power
Tourism
Unites nation
Jubilees and young monarchs renewed interest
What is the King’s Consent?
Royal veto on Acts of Parliament
Preserves the right for King to be consulted on draft laws affecting Crown and King’s private interested
How is the Monarchy taxed?
Sovereign Grant not taxable
Indirect taxes - VAT
Voluntary - council tax
Income tax, Privy Purse Tax, Personal Estate subject to Inheritance Tax
