Parliament And The Executive Flashcards
What is the first reality of the ‘fusion’ of powers in the executive
*governments are rarely removed from the office prematurely - stability
*governments are usually able to implement their manifesto without much obstruction - strength
What are the problems the ‘fusion’ of powers in the executive create
*governments may become dictatorial in nature; legislation may not be properly scrutinised
*since the government usually enjoys a majority, it is unlikely to ever be removed by a vont of no confidence, even if the public have lost faith in it
Eg public had no faith in the Tory’s
There is a balance between whether or not the HOC is effective due to the Executive dominance (strengths)
*when govs have a modest majority (eg 1992-97) they are more vulnerable — especially when backbench revolts occur (Theresa May for Brexit)
*Jeremy Corbyn has defied the Whip 148 times
*when gov has strong Commons majority, the HOL may take a more obstructive role (eg over anti-terror legislation in 2004/05)
*Commons has ultimate power to remove a government (eg 1979) and MP’s can call Ministers to account - select committees, written/oral questions etc
*various interest and cause groups, along with constituents with grievances, can be represented by an MP
There is a balance between whether or not the HOC is effective due to the Executive dominance (weaknesses)
*electoral system almost guarantees one party will win an overall majority (labour landslide July 2024)
*party loyalty is strong and parties are strong ideologically, leading to low rates of dissent. Ministers are bound by CMR; backbenchers aspire to be Ministers themselves
*MP’s can be removed from their parliamentary party, possibly leading to them losing their seat at the next election
*HOL will nearly always have to bow to gov authority and can only delay legislation
*Commons amending function is weak
-Standing committees-controlled by whips.
-Governing party has a majority on these
