The Executive Flashcards
Outline the key powers of the PM
The PM is the Chair of the Cabinet - it is the committee of senior government ministers.
The PM exercises prerogative powers on behalf of the King, some include:
- appoints government ministers
- declares war/peace
- appoints cabinet members
- recommend appointees for senior clergy, senior judges, senior positions in corporations (BBC)
- summons/dissolves parliament
What is a minister?
An MP who has specific responsibility within a government department, e.g. transport, health, education etc. They carry out duties in their constituencies.
What is a cabinet minister?
Cabinet ministers (most senior) usually run major government departments. Other cabinet posts are filled by ministers with without there own department to run. Deputy PM etc.
Sum up of MPs?
Not all MP’s of the Party in power are “in the Government” and not all of the MPs in Government are “in the Cabinet”.
What is collective responsibility?
The idea that every minister should be prepared to publicly endorse government policy, even if you disagree with it in private.
What is the individual ministerial responsibility?
This is the convention (not a rule) whereby a Minister will take personal responsibility for a failure in the implementation of policy in their department.
