Political Parties Flashcards
What has marked the development of political parties and democratization in Britain?
Both conflict and consensus.
Which two parties have traditionally dominated the British political system?
The Conservative and Labour parties.
What concept is deeply rooted in British political culture regarding party roles?
“Government and opposition.”
What are some third parties that challenge the two-party system in Britain?
Liberal Democrats (Lib Dems), Scottish National Party (SNP), Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), and the Green Party.
From which two parties did the Liberal Democrats emerge in 1988?
The Liberal Party and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
What has the SNP’s political agenda primarily focused on?
Regional autonomy.
How do party organizations in Britain typically structure themselves?
With local branches, membership, and grassroots activities.
What role do party conferences play in British political parties?
Setting policy agendas and providing a platform for internal debate.
How does the Labour Party’s selection process reflect its historical ties?
It gives significant influence to union representatives.
Who led the Labour Party with strong union backing and left-wing activism from 2015-2020?
Jeremy Corbyn.
What event in 2016 revealed internal divisions within the Labour Party?
A ‘coup’ attempt by many Labour MPs to oust Jeremy Corbyn.
Who replaced Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader in 2020, signaling a shift to a more centrist approach?
Keir Starmer.
What is the Labour Party’s historical primary source of funding?
Trade unions.
How does the Conservative Party’s leadership selection process work?
MPs narrow down candidates, and the final two are presented to the wider membership.
What were two major events during Theresa May’s leadership that highlighted internal divisions within the Conservative Party?
Attempts to balance pro- and anti-Brexit factions and her eventual resignation.
