The Structure of the Executive Flashcards
What is the role of the Prime Minister (PM) in the UK executive?
The Prime Minister is the head of the executive, responsible for overseeing the government’s work, ensuring policy coherence, and managing the Cabinet. The PM chairs Cabinet meetings, sets government priorities, and leads policy-making.
What powers does the Prime Minister have in the UK government?
The Prime Minister appoints Cabinet ministers and junior ministers, decides who sits on Cabinet committees, reorganises government departments, and represents the UK internationally, leading foreign policy.
What is the concept of the “Presidentialisation of the Prime Minister”?
This refers to the growing centralisation of power in the hands of the PM, where their personal leadership style often eclipses the Cabinet, especially with a strong mandate.
What does the term “First Among Equals” mean in reference to the Prime Minister?
This traditional view suggests that the PM is the leading member of the Cabinet, but in practice, the PM often has more power than other ministers.
What factors contribute to the Prime Minister’s power?
The PM’s power is derived from their political mandate (majority in the House of Commons), party leadership, and ability to control the executive agenda.
What is the typical composition of the Cabinet in the UK?
The Cabinet typically consists of 20-23 senior ministers, including key figures like the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Foreign Secretary, and Home Secretary. Some important figures may not be members but can attend meetings, such as the Attorney General.
What is the function of the Cabinet in the UK?
The Cabinet collectively makes key decisions on government policy, especially in areas of national importance. Major decisions are often made in Cabinet committees focused on specific policy areas.
What is the role of the Cabinet Secretary?
The Cabinet Secretary is the most senior civil servant, coordinating Cabinet decisions, providing administrative support, and ensuring effective communication within the government.
What is the principle of Collective Responsibility in Cabinet government?
Collective Responsibility ensures that all ministers publicly support decisions made by the Cabinet, even if they disagreed during discussions, ensuring unity within the executive.
How does the Cabinet function as a forum for decision-making?
The Cabinet serves as a forum where diverse views are presented, and decisions are made collectively, often reflecting a collective judgment rather than the PM’s alone.
What is the structure of government departments in the UK?
Each department is responsible for specific policy areas, such as Defence, Transport, or Health. The Secretary of State heads each department, supported by junior ministers who oversee specific roles.
What is the function of government departments?
Government departments are responsible for delivering government policy and public services, implementing laws and policies, and managing the civil service.
What is the difference between centralisation and decentralisation in government departments?
Some departments are centralised, with the PM having a significant role in policy coordination, while others have more devolved responsibilities, particularly in areas like education and health.
What is the role of Executive Agencies?
Executive Agencies are semi-autonomous bodies within government departments that carry out specific functions. They have operational independence but are still overseen by their parent department.
Can you provide an example of an Executive Agency in the UK?
An example is the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency), which operates under the Department for Transport, responsible for vehicle licensing and registration.
