the structure and role of parliament

Question 1

functions of the commons/lords/executive

Answer 1

• main law passing body
• scrutiny and checking the government
• forum for representation

Question 2

how does parliament scrutinise government?

Answer 2

• MPs/peers questions (written and oral) eg PMQs
• debates in both chambers
• departmental select committees investigate and scrutinise actions through holding hearings
• parliament has the final say on all legislation
• vote of no confidence by the commons can bring down a government

Question 3

advantages of PMQs

Answer 3

• can give positive publicity to the opposition parties (Blair calling Major ‘weak, weak, weak’)
• allow unwelcome questions to be asked of the government and expose weaknesses, eg Gordon Brown ‘we not only saved the world’ (instead of saying banks)
• keep PMs and ministers on their toes, Blair was terrified of them

Question 4

disadvantages of PMQs

Answer 4

• can convey a message of rowdiness and theatricals
• 2014 - John Bercow referencing PMQs as ‘very male, very testosterone-fueled and, in worst cases, of yobbery and public school twittishness’
• most questions are designed to either catch out the opposition or praise one’s own party