MP Representative Role Flashcards
What model of representation is used in the UK?
Trustee
What does the trustee model of representation suggest?
That MPs should take into account the interests of the constituents they represent but they are free to exercise their own judgement in Parliament and may vote according to their conscience
What are four ways MPs can perform their representative role?
- Constituency surgeries
- Legislation
- Meeting ministers
- Questions
Explain why constituency representation may cause conflict for MPs
Each MP represents the interests of the people in their constituency, no matter who they voted for, meaning that sometimes the interests of the constituency may come into conflict with Government policy.
- When this happens, MPs usually abandon their party loyalty to vote for their constituency
What is an example of MPs representing their constituency in conflict with Government policy?
8 Tory MPs voting against expansion of Heathrow Airport in 2018, defying three-line whip to do so.
Explain constituency work in relation to surgeries
- MPs hold surgeries to hear from local constituents about issues of concern
- Most MPs devote Fridays to constituency issues
- Constituency work takes up about half of a good MP’s time
What are two ways that MPs can use legislation to perform their representative role?
- Introducing Private Members Bills to help a constituent
- Amending legislation to protect their constituents
What is an example of an MP introducing a PMB to represent their constituency?
Former Labour MP for Liverpool, Steve Rotherham introduced a bill making it illegal to operate public transport vehicles with tyres older than ten years. This was after a coach crash killed three constituents due to a blowout of a 19-year-old tyre.
- The mother of one victim campaigned for bill along with fellow constituents
What is an example of an MP attempting to amend legislation to protect their constituents?
MP Ian Paisley campaigned against anti-tobacco legislation as Gallagher tobacco company operates within his constituency
Explain how MPs can meet ministers in order to perform their representative role?
Some it is possible for MPs to arrange a meeting with a Cabinet Minister to discuss an issue directly. While this is unusual, it may be possible within party circles
Why are written questions effective for MPs in performing their representative role?
Written questions about constituency issues must be answered with detailed information from Ministers and/or Civil Servants within set time limits
When can MPs ask oral questions to represent their constituency?
- Debates
- Prime Minister’s Questions
- Adjournment debates
What do MPs also represent as well as their constituents?
- Their party
- Society (in theory)
- Groups they are a part of (e.g. Trade Unions or social causes such as Age UK)
