The Workings of Parliamentary Democracy

Question 1

What does ‘bi-cameral’ mean in the context of the UK Parliament?

Answer 1

‘Bi-cameral’ means that the UK Parliament is composed of two legislative chambers: House of Commons and House of Lords.

Question 2

What are ‘backbench’ MPs?

Answer 2

‘Backbench’ MPs are those who are not ministers or shadow ministers. They represent their constituents, participate in debates, vote on legislation, and scrutinise the government.

Question 3

What is the main function of Select Committees in the House of Commons?

Answer 3

Select Committees scrutinise the work of particular government departments and hold the government to account.

Question 4

What is ‘Parliamentary Sovereignty’?

Answer 4

Parliamentary Sovereignty is the principle that Parliament is the supreme legal authority in the UK, allowing it to make or repeal any law.

Question 5

What is the difference between a ‘written’ and an ‘unwritten’ constitution?

Answer 5

‘Written’ constitution is codified in a single document (e.g., USA, France). ‘Unwritten’ constitution, like the UK’s, consists of statutes, common law, conventions, and treatises.

Question 6

What are the key roles of the Prime Minister in the UK government?

Answer 6

Key roles include appointing ministers, chairing Cabinet meetings, and recommending the dissolution of Parliament.

Question 7

What does the doctrine of ‘collective responsibility’ entail?

Answer 7

Collective responsibility requires Cabinet ministers to publicly support the government’s policies, presenting a united front even if they privately disagree.

Question 8

What is the difference between primary and secondary legislation?

Answer 8

Primary legislation refers to Acts of Parliament that introduce or amend laws. Secondary legislation refers to rules made under the authority of primary legislation.

Question 9

What is the purpose of the King’s Speech and who writes it?

Answer 9

The King’s Speech outlines the government’s legislative agenda for the coming year and is written by the Prime Minister and their cabinet.

Question 10

Outline the steps involved in the passage of a bill through Parliament.

Answer 10

The steps include: Green Paper White Paper *Readings Committee stage Report stage * Final vote * Royal Assent.