Theme B: Westminister Parliament Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are the four distinct roles in the Westminster Parliament?
The four distinct roles are the executive, the legislature, the judiciary, and the monarchy.
What is the purpose of the separation of powers?
The separation of powers exists to protect citizens and ensure that no one government or leader has too much power.
What is the role of the executive in the UK Parliament?
The executive, led by the Prime Minister and Cabinet, proposes new laws with the help of the Civil Service.
What is the role of the legislature in the UK Parliament?
The legislature, consisting of the Houses of Commons and Lords, makes and changes the law.
What does it mean that Westminster is bicameral?
Bicameral means that the legislature is made up of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
What is the role of the judiciary in the UK?
Judges and magistrates interpret the laws and apply appropriate sentences for criminal behaviour.
What is the role of the monarchy in the law-making process?
The monarchy gives Royal Assent to each law and remains politically neutral.
What are Private Members’ Bills?
Private Members’ Bills are introduced by members of the House of Lords or Commons who are not part of the government.
What is the main role of the House of Commons?
The House of Commons debates, examines, proposes, and passes laws.
What is the House of Lords known for?
The House of Lords is known as the ‘second chamber’ and provides expertise in specific areas.
How many Members of Parliament are in the House of Commons?
The House of Commons consists of 650 Members of Parliament.
What is Hansard?
Hansard is the official record of debates and speeches in both Houses of Parliament.
