The British Constitution Flashcards
At the turn of the 19th century, who could vote?
Men of 21 who owned a certain amount of property
In politics, what is a franchise?
number of people who have the right to vote
When was the voting age reduced to 18 for men and women?
1969
Why is the British constitution unwritten?
never had a revolution which led permanently to a totally new system of government.
What are the different parts of government
The Monarchy The Parliament (House of Lords, House of Commons) The PM The Cabinet The Judiciary The Police The Civil Service The Local Governments
The Queen has reigned since her father’s death in
1952
What is the Diamond Jubilee
60 years as Queen
Who opens new parliamentary session each year.
Queen
‘I (name) swear by Almighty God that on becoming a British citizen, I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, her Heirs and Successors, according to law.’
Oath of allegiance
‘I (name) do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that on becoming a British citizen, I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, her Heirs and Successors, according to law.’
Affirmation of allegiance
Who forms the House of Commons?
Elected MPs
Who are peers?
Members of the House of Lords
Who did this apply to? Until 1958,
‘hereditary’, which means they inherited their title, or
senior judges, or
bishops of the Church of England
Peers, House of Lords
Since 1958, Life peers are appointed whom?
The monarch, on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Since 1999, hereditary peers have what?
lost the automatic right to attend the House of Lords.
Which body can suggest amendments or propose new laws, which are then discussed by MPs?
House of Lords
Who has the power to overrule the House of Lords?
House of Commons
Debates in the House of Commons are chaired by?
The Speaker
Who is the chief Officer of the House of Commons?
The Speaker
Who is neutral and does not represent a political party, even though he or she is an MP, represents a constituency and deals with constituents’ problems like any other MP?
The Speaker
Who is choen by other MPs in a secret ballot?
The Speaker
Who keeps oder during debates and ensures rules are followed?
The Speaker
When are MPs elected?
General Election, which is held at least every five years.
What happens if an MP dies or resigns?
Byelection in their constituency
