The House Of Commons

Question 1

Which social groups are over/underrepresented in the commons?

Answer 1

• traditionally old white rich men
• now women make up 40% (still not equal)
• ethnic minorities make up 14% (18% in Britain)
• about 11% MPs are LGBTQ (4% in reality)
• Working class are far underrepresented

Question 2

What are 7 functions of the commons?

Answer 2

• Legislation
• executive scrutiny
• representation
• Legitimation (passing laws in the name of the people)
• Accountability
• Debate
• provide ministers

Question 3

What is the role of the opposition?

Answer 3

Powers:
- highest number of questions at minster question time
- chairs a number of selected committees
- Official opposition has 17/20 ‘opposition days’ annually
- Can oppose government through votes on bills, debates, committees, PMQs
Weaknesses:
- minority so suffers defeats
- less media attentions
- government sets political agenda

Question 4

What are 5 problems with the commons?

Answer 4

• Overly powerful executive and party loyalty
• Weak scrutiny
• Party control is prevalent though whips
• Not politically or socially representative (FPTP)
• MPs are often behaving badly e.g Peterborough Onasanya was sent to prison for perverting the course of justice

Question 5

How has Parliament been reformed?

Answer 5

• Working hours made more family friendly
• select committees strengthened
• E-petitions introduced
• EVEL
• Backbench business affairs committees organise timetable on certain days

Question 6

What should be reformed?

Answer 6

• voting system
• committees
• recall elections should be made easier
• stronger freedom of info act
• prerogative powers to parliament instead of PM
• more time to debating