The Origins: Structure Of The Core Executive

Question 1

What is the origins of the role of PM

Answer 1

-Br PM post not formally set up due to evolving nature of constitution
-the role emerged + not formally created unlike US president
-first recognised PM Robert Walpole — first lord of treasury, chancellor exchequer + leader HOC 1721-1742
-Walpole fall from power when lost vote no confidence - PM must retain majority in parl
-1992 - ministerial code set out duties + expectations of PM + govt ministers

Question 2

How is the PM chosen

Answer 2

-unlike US pres PM not chosen directly by electors
-under parl system PM is leader of majority party in commons + monarch invited that leader to form + lead govt
-2017 may leader largest single party but lost majority + offered chance form govt if able agree ‘confidence + supply’ arrangement’ with DUP
-confidence + supply — one party agrees support governing party on key votes like snh votes no confidence

Question 3

How does a Pm leave office

Answer 3

-following defeat in gen elec e.g. John Major 1997 deafened in landslide by Blair
-on health grounds e.g. Wilson 1976
-by resigning mid-term e.g. Cameron over EU referendum to leave EU 2016 + may won 2016 cons leadership election after rival pulled out