Topic 8: The Prime Minister and the Cabinet

Question 1

1. Explain and analyse 3 features of a Prime Ministerial government:

Answer 1

1. Control over cabinet – E.g., Margaret Thatcher’s dominance in the 1980s.
2. Media focus on the PM – E.g., Boris Johnson’s leadership during COVID-19.
3. Power of patronage – Ability to appoint/dismiss ministers (e.g., Liz Truss reshuffling her cabinet).

Question 2

2. Explain and analyse three ways in which the cabinet can limit the power of the Prime Minister:

Answer 2

1. Cabinet rebellions – Resignations such as Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid undermining Boris Johnson.
2. Collective decision-making – Consensus required for major policies (e.g., Brexit negotiations under Theresa May).
3. Leaking information – Ministers undermining policies through the media.

Question 3

3. Explain and analyse 3 arguments in favour of collective ministerial responsibility:

Answer 3

1. Government unity – Ensures a unified front on policy (e.g., Budget announcements).
2. Accountability – Entire government is accountable for decisions (e.g., resignation after policy failures).
3. Trust in decision-making – Citizens see government as cohesive and competent.

Question 4

4. Explain and analyse 3 reasons why accusations of presidentialism have increased:

Answer 4

1. Increased media focus on the PM – Boris Johnson’s “personalised” campaigns in 2019.
2. Dominance over cabinet – Tony Blair’s reliance on close advisers over formal cabinet structures.
3. International statesmanship – PMs take a prominent role on the global stage, e.g., Rishi Sunak at COP27.

Question 5

5. Explain and analyse 3 reasons for ministerial resignations:

Answer 5

1. Scandals – Matt Hancock resigning over breach of COVID rules.
2. Policy disagreements – Iain Duncan Smith resigning over welfare cuts in 2016.
3. Failure to perform – Gavin Williamson removed as Education Secretary due to exam mishandling.