representative function

Question 1

who do MPs represent?

Answer 1

1. their constituencies - however not all constituents voted for their MP so it’s not 100% representative
2. their party
3. special interest/groups they feel strongly about

Question 2

MPs having second jobs:

Answer 2

-many MPs take jobs outside of parliament, which enhances the expertise of MPs
-they must declare their second jobs for transparency and to avoid a conflict of interest
-so, MPs could also be company directors, consultants etc

Question 3

what are some limitations of MPs having second jobs?

Answer 3

-it could limit an MPs effectiveness of being representative of their constituents if their time is divided between both jobs
-MPs earn a generous salary e.g. in 2020 the average was just under £80,000 - so do they really need a second income that takes them away from their main job as a PM?

Question 4

give an example of a scandal surrounding MPs being involved in different sectors:

Answer 4

david cameron used his influence to get tax and funding benefits for greensill, the company he was advising

Question 5

MPs as representatives of interests:

Answer 5

-MPs frequently and informally represent particular interests and causes
-MPs often join cross party groups of other MPs who share similar concerns
-e.g. currently cross party groups about darts and scottish whiskey!
-therefore they are often only representing their own interests, not that of their constituents, and use their influence in parliament to promote their own interests

Question 6

MPs as constituency problem solvers:

Answer 6

-they undertake casework for their constituents
-they hold regular surgeries where the public can meet then and raise issues directly with them