Mussolini And Government Flashcards
The role of the Cabinet and the role of Parliament
-The role of Cabinet was not to be a decision-making or even advisory body, but simply one which followed instructions. Mussolini already occupied key posts for most of his dictatorship eg Foreign Minister
-By 1926, it had lost the power to discuss policy, debate, amend legislation and to criticise the government. Chamber was dominated by Fascist Deputies who merely shouted their assent to approve legislation.
-The electorate was reduced to exclude most of the working class (previously PSI supporters).
-All candidates had to be approved by the Fascists and results were rigged
-Parliament was abolished January 1939; replaced by the Chamber of Fasces and Corporations
The role of the civil service:
-Mussolini needed their support, but tried to achieve his goals without provoking a head-on clash, which Fascist radicals wanted.
-He used his powers of patronage to reward loyalty by promoting civil servants and introducing policies which could gain conservative support.
-If his wishes were not supported, then he would be ruthless in seeking out opposition.
His rather conciliatory approach, therefore, meant there was no revolution in government – by 1927 only 15% of the civil service were Fascist members, but still loyally fulfilled instructions.
The role of the armed forces:
Mussolini emphasised their common interest in expanding the armed forces and in pursuing an aggressive foreign policy.
He gained further support by promoting senior generals to the post of Field Marshal.
Whilst it resented the paramilitaries, the army was willing to give its loyalty to Il Duce.
Role of the judiciary and the local government
The role of the judiciary:
-Dozens of judges sacked for being insufficiently sympathetic to Fascism or for being too independent.
-Mussolini wanted to ensure that the judiciary could be trusted. The legal system lost all claim to impartiality.
-Internment became common, and when court cases did arise, Mussolini sometimes intervened.
The role of local government:
-Local self-government was abolished, and elected mayors and town councils were replaced by officials appointed by Rome.
-Mussolini’s methods ensured he extended his power throughout all levels of Italy.
What was the role of the King
-Monarchy had traditionally distanced itself from domestic policy.
-Mussolini realised that he completely overawed Victor Emmanuel, and took advantage of this to deter him from any political involvement.
-Mussolini still followed the convention of visiting the King twice a week, but was never asked for advice – the King simply told him what Mussolini wanted him to hear.
