Prime Minister and Cabinet Flashcards
What is the ‘Core Executive’?
The policy-making network that includes the prime minister (PM), senior minister, cabinet committees and top civil servants.
What is the Prime Minister (PM)?
The first or leading minister, the Head of the Government.
What does ‘Primus Inter Pares’ mean?
A Latin term meaning ‘first among equals’. In respect of the prime minister, it implies they are the most important member of the cabinet, yet they govern in a collective manner.
What is the Cabinet?
A group of around 20-25 senior ministers who meet regularly, usually weekly. The cabinet is chaired by the PM and is the key decision-making body in the UK government.
What is the Inner Cabinet?
A small core of ministers a prime minister particularly relies upon for advice or support. In part, it reflects the relatively large size of the full cabinet, but also a tendency for the prime minister to seek ideas and support from ministers they particularly trust.
What is a Cabinet Committee?
A specialist subdivision of the cabinet; these committees comprise of fewer members, who focus on particular policy areas.
What is the definition of Individual Responsibility?
The requirement that all ministers are responsible for their own actions while in public office. Where they fall short, they are expected to offer to resign.
What is the definition of Collective Responsibility?
A requirement that all members of the cabinet and government must support the prime minister and government policy in public, enabling a united common front to be presented to the public and the media.
What is the definition of Accountability?
The requirement to explain and respond to any actions that ministers and their departments undertake, above all to parliament.
