One. British Political System Flashcards
What is a Constitutional Monarchy?
Political power was shared between the monarch, house of lords and house of commons.
The monarch would dissolve Parliament but could not rule with out it (so new election would be called)
Who were the House of Commons?
An elected assembly, but was not representative as few men had the right to vote. Controlled taxation, and their power was increasing.
Who were the House of Lords?
Unelected, hereditary peers. More influential. They had the power to block measures passed by the Commons
How did Industrialisation emphasise the unrepresentative Parliament?
Small market towns declined in size but still sent two representatives whereas new large Urban areas lacked any representation. Only a small number of men could vote and so the majority of population was completely Unrepresented.
What were the requirements to vote in the 1780s?
Men who held land of a rate of 40 shillings a year. In 1783, 250,000 men could vote.
Was the electoral procedure corrupt?
Yes. Voting was carried out in public which led to bribery and corruption.
Whigs and Tories
In the 1780s they were emerging as the two distinct political parties but they lacked unity and people disagreed within them and they were disorganised.
Why does Asa Briggs think that Patronage was the one thing holding the mixed constitution together?
If the King had not been able to reward loyalty through handing out well paid positions, annual pensions and honours he would have lost control of government.
Why was Parliament in need of Reform?
Dominated by wealthy & influential landowners and aristocrats who didn’t see a need for any change in existing system. They were in Parliament to benefit themselves: for political advancement and to benefit from system of patronage.
What was the system of franchise in the counties?
County MPs were elected by men who had land at a minimum rateable value of 40 shillings a year. They were often swayed in voting by the dominant landowner who had nominated the candidate. Each country was represented by two MPs.
What was the system of franchise in the Boroughs?
No uniform system of franchise. Each borough was different, but still represented by two mps, irrespective of the size of the population.
