The powers of the prime minister and the Cabinet to dictate events and policy:

Question 1

1) Why have the nature and extent of the prime minister’s powers, been a matter of debate for generations?

Answer 1

1) This is because in Britain’s uncodified constitution, there is no precise definition of this role.

Question 2

1) What are the prime minister’s powers?

Answer 2

1) > Appointment and dismissal of government ministers.
> Managing Cabinet: Chairing meetings, controlling the agenda and summoning up its conclusions.
> Leadership of the largest party in the Commons.
> Responsible for the structure of government, including the number and functions of government departments.
> Directing government policy, especially economic and foreign policy, but also deciding when to use military force.
> Providing national leadership, and representing the UK in affairs.

Question 3

1) What are the factors that enhance or restrict the prime minister’s powers?

Answer 3

1) > How united the governing party and Cabinet are.
> Personality and leadership style of the prime minister.
> Popularity of the prime minister, and majority size.
> External pressures, such as state of the economy and foreign affairs.