Parliamentary Law Making - Influences on Parliament Flashcards
What is a political influence on Parliament?
Party Manifestos
Give 2 advantages of Manifestos
1) Party has its proposals ready
2) Democratic Influence as they are elected
Give 2 disadvantages of Manifestos
1) Manifestos are not binding so a party doesn’t need to follow them
2) Results in regular changes to the law which is costly
How can Public Opinion be an influence on parliament
As the public over 18 can vote they are a big influence on Parliament
Give 2 advantages of Public Opinion as an influence on Parliament
1) Parliament can legislate on issues important to society
2) Public can criticise policies to help improve laws
Give 2 disadvantages of Public Opinion as an influence on Parliament
1) Difficult to gauge public opinion
2) A referendum is not always representative due to voter turnout
How does the media influence Parliament?
If an issue gets a lot of media attention it can change or appear to change public opinion.
Give 2 advantages of the media as an influence
1) Media is free
2) It can draw public attention to an issue
Give 2 disadvantages of the media as an influence
1) Media can manipulate information
2) Knee-jerk reaction - Parliament can rush legislation which is poor quality as a result
What are Pressure Groups?
Groups which campaign for a certain issue or group of people.
Give 2 advantages of Pressure Groups
1) Expose the public to new ideas and opinions
2) Raise important issues to Parliament
Give 2 disadvantages of Pressure Groups
1) Pressure Groups can have conflicting views
2) Needs a lot of funding
What is lobbying?
Meeting individual MPs and persuading to raise a certain matter in Parliament
(Private Members Bill)
Give 2 advantages of lobbying
1) MPs give causes a voice inside Parliament
2) Anyone can approach a lobbyist to present their views
Give 2 disadvantages of lobbying
1) Private Member’s Bills are unlikely to pass
2) Lobbyists are expensive
