The Role and Significance of the Opposition

Question 1

Why is the opposition important?

Answer 1

1. Ensure the government justifies its legislative programme and executive decisions.
2. Create a public debate by providing reasoned arguments.
3. The biggest opposition party is prepared to provide an alternative government government in waiting in case the government seeks an early dissolution of Parliament.
4. Exposing any failures of policy implementation.
5. Presents themselves as having the political stature as a prime minister in waiting

Question 2

How can they hold the executive accountable?

Answer 2

1. Allows opposition days, 17 belong to 2nd biggest party.
2. Scrutinise policy in Public Bill Committees and offer amendments- need government support.
3. Shadow ministers expose the mistakes of their opposite numbers.
4. Angela Rayner in 2022, powerfully attacked Boris Johnson over breaking lockdown regulations.
5. Especially powerful if they have a small majority.
6. Force them to force them to justify legislation.