Prime Minister and the Government

Question 1

Executive

Answer 1

The collective group of Prime Minister, Cabinet and junior ministers, sometimes known as ‘The Government’.

Question 2

Cabinet

Answer 2

The Prime Minister and senior ministers, most of whom lead a particular government department.

Question 3

Minister

Answer 3

An MP or member of the House of Lords appointed to a position in the government, usually exercising specific responsibilities in a department.

Question 4

Government Department

Answer 4

A part of the executive, usually with specific responsibility over an area such as education, health or defence.

Question 5

Royal Prerogative

Answer 5

A set of powers and privileges belonging to the monarch but normally exercised by the Prime Minister or Cabinet, such as the granting of honours or of legal pardons.

Question 6

Secondary Legislation

Answer 6

Powers given to the Executive by Parliament to make changes to the law within certain specific rules.

Question 7

Individual Responsibility

Answer 7

The principle by which ministers are responsible for their personal conduct and for their departments.

Question 8

Collective Responsibility

Answer 8

Principle by which ministers must support Cabinet decisions or leave the Executive.

Question 9

Presidential Responsibility

Answer 9

An executive dominated by one individual, this may be a President but is also used to describe a strong, dominant Prime Minister.