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Politics > UK Politics > Flashcards

UK Politics Flashcards

1
Q

Oligarchy

A

A political system in which power lies in the hands of a few privileged elites, not the greater population.

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2
Q

Enfranchised

A

Given the right to vote

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3
Q

Rule of Law

A

laws apply to everyone equally including the government and elected officials

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4
Q

first past the post party leader

A

voters cast a vote for a representative to represent their constituency, the leader of that party becomes prime minister

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5
Q

direct democracy

A

a form of democracy whereby people make decisions for themselves rather than allowing a representative to do it for them

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6
Q

representative democracy

A

people will vote for a politician who will represent their views in parliament

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7
Q

absolute monarchy

A

monarch has absolute power

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8
Q

republic

A

a country without a monarchy - usually has a head of state instead of

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9
Q

implied repeal

A

a more recent act of parliament overrules or amends a previous one

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10
Q

why can’t parliament bind its successor?

A

no parliament can pass a law that a future parliament can not repeal - the current government has as much power as the next

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11
Q

president

A

head of state and head of government

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12
Q

constitutional monarchy

A

the monarch accepts the limits given by the constitution

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13
Q

devolution

A

transfer of power from central government to regional or local governments

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14
Q

public interest balance / wiley balance

A

does the public interest in releasing potentially sensitive material outweigh the public interest in withholding it

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15
Q

who were the leader of the labour and conservative parties in 1983?

A

Micheal Foot and Margaret Thatcher

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16
Q

who were the leaders of the labour and conservative party in 1997?

A

Tony Blair and John Major

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17
Q

what was new labour new danger?

A

an ad campaign ran by the conservatives to discourage people from voting for new labour - it was removed after the advertising standard received over 150 complaints

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18
Q

bicameral system

A

Bicameral literally means ‘two-Chamber’. A bicameral parliament is one that contains two separate assemblies who must both agree when new laws are made. The UK Parliament is bicameral because both the House of Commons and the House of Lords are involved in making legislation.

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19
Q

Backbench Business committee

A
  • gives opportunities to backbench Members of Parliament to bring forward debates of their choice
  • the first business committee to be established by the House of Commons
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20
Q

Whips

A

An official of a political party appointed to maintain parliamentary discipline among its members, especially so as to ensure attendance and voting in debates.

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21
Q

Descriptive representation

A

Do elected officials mirror the demographic characteristics of the population?

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22
Q

The Speaker

A

an individual who resides over debates, maintains order and ensures any parliamentary rules are followed.

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23
Q

Motion of no confidence

A

a formal way for MPs to express that they no longer trust the current government. If it passes, it can lead to changes like a new government or an election.

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24
Q

Filibuster

A
  • a tactic used by members of Parliament to delay or obstruct the legislative process
  • involves making lengthy speeches or engaging in other time-consuming activities to impede the progress of a proposed law or debate
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25
Q

Parliamentary Sovereignty

A

Parliament has supreme legal authority. It can create or end any law and no other body or institution can override or set aside its legislation.

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26
Q

Ten minute rule bills

A
  • a way for Members of Parliament to introduce a proposal for a new law
  • they get around ten minutes to briefly present their case
  • the time limit is often exceeded and they usually have a low chance of becoming law
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27
Q

Parliamentary sovereignty

A

The Parliament has the supreme legal authority. It can create or end any law, and no other body or institution can overrule or set aside its legislation.

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28
Q

Hereditary Peers

A

Hereditary peers are individuals who inherit their titles and the right to sit in the House of Lords from their ancestors. Historically, many members of the House of Lords gained their positions based on inheritance. However, the House of Lords Act 1999 significantly reduced the number of hereditary peers, allowing only a limited number to remain.

There are 92 of them.

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29
Q

Ballot Bills

A

Ballot Bills are a type of Private Members’ Bill used in the House of Commons.

At the start of each new parliamentary year, backbench MPs are invited to enter their names into a ballot. The few MPs who are lucky in the draw may each bring in a Bill of their choosing, known as a Ballot Bill. Ballot Bills take priority over other Private Members’ Bills when time is allocated for debates and so have a better chance of becoming law.

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30
Q

Parliament Act (1911)

A

The Parliament Act 1911 had a profound effect on Parliament and politics in the 20th century. It followed the constitutional crisis which had begun in November 1909 when the Conservative-dominated House of Lords rejected the Liberal Government’s ‘People’s Budget’. In the two general elections that had followed in 1910 the issue of the House of Lords had dominated debate. The Parliament Bill sought to remove the power of the House of Lords to reject money bills, and to replace the Lords’ veto over other public bills with the power of delay. In addition, it was proposed to reduce the maximum duration of a Parliament from seven years to five. The Parliament Act was passed by the House of Lords by a 131-114 vote in August 1911.

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31
Q

Green papers

A
  • government documents that present proposals for discussion and consultation before formalizing a policy
  • they are intended to stimulate debate and gather input from the public, interest groups, and experts.
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32
Q

White papers

A
  • official government documents that outline policy proposals and present plans for future legislation
  • they are more formal than green papers and are often published after a period of consultation and discussion
  • they provide a comprehensive explanation of the government’s intended course of action and are a crucial step in the policymaking process
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33
Q

Parliamentary Rebellion

A

MPs voting against the party’s official stance or policies
can occur during a vote on legislation or a key issue
highlight internal disagreements and can impact the unity and stability of a political party

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34
Q

Question Time

A
  • a regular session in the House of Commons where MPs have the opportunity to question government ministers
  • this session allows MPs to scrutinize the government, seek information, and hold ministers accountable for their actions and policies

Prime ministers question time is different and occurs for an hour on a Wednesday.

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35
Q

Trustee (Burkean) representation

A

Trustee representation is a concept where elected representatives use their judgment and expertise to make decisions on behalf of their constituents. Instead of simply following public opinion or specific mandates, representatives act as trustees, believing that they know what is in the best interest of their constituents, even if it may differ from immediate public preferences.

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36
Q

Representation

A

Representation refers to the idea that elected officials (Members of Parliament, for example) stand for and act on behalf of the interests, concerns, and views of the people who voted for them.

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37
Q

What are the different forms of representation?

A

There are different models of representation, such as delegate representation (strictly following constituents’ views) and trustee representation (using personal judgment to make decisions).

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38
Q

Free vote

A

A free vote occurs when members of a political party are allowed to vote according to their individual preferences rather than following the party’s official line. It is often used for matters of conscience or issues that are not considered party-political. During a free vote, MPs can vote based on their personal beliefs or the views of their constituents rather than being bound by party discipline.

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39
Q

Backbenchers

A

A backbencher typically refers to a Member of Parliament (MP) or legislator who does not hold a ministerial or shadow ministerial position. Backbenchers sit in the back rows of the parliamentary chamber and are not part of the government’s frontbench team or the main opposition frontbench. They play a crucial role in representing their constituents, participating in debates, and scrutinizing legislation. Backbenchers are often seen as independent voices within their party.

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40
Q

ignore

A

Royal assent is the formal approval given by a monarch to a bill passed by the Parliament, marking the final stage in the legislative process. In the context of the United Kingdom, once both Houses of Parliament (the House of Commons and the House of Lords) have approved a bill, it is sent to the reigning monarch for royal assent. While it is a constitutional formality, royal assent is rarely refused. Once granted, the bill becomes law and is officially part of the legal framework.

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41
Q

Public bill committee

A

A Public Bill Committee in the UK Parliament is a group of members who review and discuss the details of proposed laws that affect the public. They can suggest changes and amendments before the bill becomes law.

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42
Q

Salisbury-Addison convention

A

The Salisbury-Addison Convention is an informal agreement in the UK that suggests members of the House of Lords usually don’t block laws promised in the winning party’s election manifesto. This helps avoid clashes between the elected House of Commons and the appointed House of Lords.

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43
Q

Lords spiritual

A

“Lords Spiritual” are bishops from the Church of England who have seats in the UK Parliament’s House of Lords. They bring a religious perspective to discussions and decisions in the House of Lords.

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44
Q

Scrutiny

A

Scrutiny refers to the detailed examination and oversight of government actions, policies, and decisions by parliamentary committees, the media, and other institutions. It involves assessing the government’s performance, holding it accountable, and ensuring transparency in its actions. Scrutiny is a fundamental aspect of democratic governance, promoting accountability and the responsible use of power.

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45
Q

Delegate Theory

A

Delegate theory in politics means that elected representatives should follow exactly what their voters want rather than making decisions based on their own judgment or beliefs.

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46
Q

House of lords

A

The House of Lords is a part of the UK Parliament where appointed members, including life peers and bishops, review and suggest changes to laws proposed by the elected House of Commons.

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47
Q

Presentation Bills

A

a type of Private Members Bill that is introduced without debate in the House of Commons.
Advance notice must be given in writing by the sponsoring MP

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48
Q

Party Unity

A

Party unity means how well members of a political party stick together and agree on their party’s ideas and leaders. When there’s good unity, they tend to support the same things; when it’s low, there might be disagreements within the party.

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49
Q

Private members bill

A

A private member’s bill is a suggestion for a new law made by an MP who isn’t part of the government. It’s a way for individual members to propose ideas, but these bills face challenges in becoming law.

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50
Q

House of commons

A

the democratically elected house of the UK Parliament, responsible for making laws and checking the work of Government. MPs consider and propose new laws, and can scrutinise government policies by asking ministers questions about current issues either in the Commons Chamber or in Committees.

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51
Q

Parliament Act (1949)

A

Labour sought to reduce the Lords’ power further, by reducing the time that the House of Lords could delay bills from three sessions over two years to two sessions over one year.

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52
Q

Liaison Committee

A

The Liaison Committee is made up of Select Committee Chairs. It considers the overall work of select committees, promotes effective scrutiny of Government and chooses committee reports for debates. It questions the Prime Minister about policy, usually three times a year.

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53
Q

The King/Queens speech

A

The King’s Speech is the speech that the King reads out in the Lords Chamber on the occasion of the State Opening of Parliament. It sets out the programme of legislation that the Government intend to pursue in the forthcoming parliamentary session.

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54
Q

Front Benchers

A

A frontbencher is either a Government minister or an Opposition shadow spokesperson. They are so-called because they occupy the front benches on either side of the Chamber when the House is in session, with other party members - backbenchers - sitting behind them.

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55
Q

Life peers

A

The Life Peerages Act 1958 introduced more people from different professions, and more women. Before the Act, the House of Lords had been made up exclusively of hereditary Peers. A life Peer cannot pass their title on to his or her children. Although life Peers are appointed by the Crown, it is the Prime Minister who nominates them. By convention the Leader of the Opposition and other party leaders can propose a certain number.

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56
Q

Select Comitees

A

Select committees work in both Houses. They check and report on areas ranging from the work of government departments to economic affairs.

Select committees run inquiries on specific topics. The outcomes of these inquiries are public and many require a response from the government. Select committees also carry out their work through correspondence, by engaging with the public through events and surveys, holding round-table discussions and undertaking visits.

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57
Q

ultra vires

A

acting or done beyond one’s legal power or authority.
“at one point they argue that the legislation is ultras vires”

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58
Q

Pressure group

A

A pressure group is a bunch of people or organizations working together to influence the government’s decisions about a specific issue or cause that matters to them. They use various methods to try and shape laws or policies related to their concerns.

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59
Q

Inside pressure group

A
  • close ties with the government
  • eg national farmers union
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60
Q

Outside pressure group

A
  • use different measures outside the government
  • eg extinction rebellion
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61
Q

pluralism

A

Pluralism is when a society embraces diversity, allowing different groups with various beliefs and opinions to coexist. It’s about recognizing and respecting multiple perspectives.

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62
Q

political agenda

A

the changes a party aim to go and make

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63
Q

direct action

A

protests, petitions, violence, strikes

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64
Q

think tank

A

A think tank is an organization that conducts research and provides analysis on various issues, often to influence public policy or decision-making.

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65
Q

lobbyist

A

A lobbyist is someone who advocates for a specific cause or interest, often on behalf of a group or organization, by influencing government officials or policymakers to support their views or goals.

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66
Q

First-Past-The-Post

A
  • used to elect MPs and local councillors
  • vote for one person
  • candidate with most votes is elected
  • 650 constituencies elect one MP
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67
Q

How many voters are there on average in a constituency?

A

75,000

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68
Q

What does a simple plurality system mean?

A

The candidate with the most votes is elected as MP

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69
Q

Advantages of FPTP

A
  • fast and simple for voters with a quick result
  • leads to strong, single party governments
  • clear choice makes governments accountable and gives them a majority
  • excludes extremist parties
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70
Q

when was the AV referendum?

A

2011 - called by the Lib Dem’s as having AV would have benefitted them
only had a 42% turnout

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71
Q

What do scottish parliament elections use?

A

AMS

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72
Q

Disadvantages of FPTP

A
  • more people vote against a candidate than for them
  • MP may have a weak mandate
  • votes aren’t accurately transferred into seats
  • exaggerates support for winning party with ‘the winners bonus’
  • big party bonuses
  • encourages tactical voting
  • small parties without geographically concentrated support do badly
  • lots of wasted votes
  • votes have unequal value dependent on if you’re in a safe or marginal seat
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73
Q

what is a constituency surgery?

A

MPs help their constituents and address any of their issues
- Mark Fletcher who opposed fracking in a vote due to what his constituents said at a surgery

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74
Q

why is FPTP used in the UK?

A
  • suits the interests of the 2 main parties
  • 2011 AV referendum was only agreed to after the LDs insisted on it in coalition agreements
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75
Q

Additional Member System (AMS)

A
  • voters get 2 votes, 1 for a constituency representative and 1 for a party
  • the party list element adds an element of proportional representation
  • gives underrepresented parties in the constituency element greater representation in the party element
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76
Q

What voting system do the Welsh Assembly and Greater London Assembly use?

A

Additional Member System (AMS)

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77
Q

In Scottish parliament how many members are there and how many are elected by constituencies and party list?

A

There are 129 members with 73 elected by constituencies and 56 elected by party list members

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78
Q

Advantages of AMS

A
  • very proportional system overall

> in the 1999 Scottish Parliament elections, the Conservatives won 0 constituency MPs despite getting 15.6% of the vote but won 18 additional member seats receiving 14% of seats overall
in the 1997 UK parliament election the conservatives got 17.5% of votes but 0 seats

  • strong MP constituency link
  • voters have a wider choice then under FPTP
  • votes are less likely to be wasted
  • coalition governments have proved to be stable
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79
Q

Disadvantages of AMS

A
  • creates 2 different types of members, one with constituency responsibilities and some without
  • in smaller assemblies there are sometimes too few seats for the top up (party list) element to correct the seat
    element
  • AMS is more likely to lead to minority and coalition governments which can be seen as weak
  • a closed list system is used meaning that the party leadership ranks candidates which can limit people from becoming elected
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80
Q

Why is AMS used in elections?

A
  • chosen as a compromise that retains good elements of FPTP without being as radical as STV
  • Labour expected it would keep them in government which it did until 2007 and the rise of SNP
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81
Q

Single Transferable Vote

A
  • used in elections for NI assembly and Scottish Councils
  • uses multi member constituencies
  • voters number their choices based on preference
  • in order to be elected candidates need to reach a quota
  • results are calculated using a complex counting process that takes into account 2nd choices
  • if a candidate reaches the quota on the first round of counting, they are elected and their second choice votes (people who put them 2nd) are redistributed
  • if no one attains the quota, the least popular candidate is eliminated and the second preference of those who voted for this candidate are transferred
  • this continues until all seats are filled
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82
Q

Advantages of STV

A
  • highly proportional
  • voter choice is very high: voters can choose between candidates standing for the same party as well as between candidates from different parties
  • in NI it has created power sharing governments which allows rival representatives to work together which helped to end the troubles
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83
Q

What voting system do the Northern Ireland Assembly and Scottish councils use?

A

Single Transferable Vote (STV)

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84
Q

Disadvantages of STV

A
  • in large multi member constituencies the member-constituency link may be weak
  • power sharing governments may be prone to conflict
  • the NI executive is frequently suspended
  • the DUP and Sinn Fein now dominate
  • counting votes is slow and results are tricky to understand
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85
Q

Why is STV used in NI?

A
  • highly proportional and likely to ensure broadest representation
  • important to avoid single-party domination which could derail peace
  • the lack of single member constituencies is less of a problem because representatives represent religiously more than they do geographically
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86
Q

Supplementary Vote

A
  • used in elections for London Mayor as well as used to be for police and crime commissioner
  • each voter is allowed a first and second preference
  • any candidate who receives more than 50% of the first preference is selected automatically, if this doesn’t occur all candidates except the top 2 are eliminated and second preference voters for the two candidates are added to produce a winner
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87
Q

Advantages of SV

A
  • ensures broad support for the winner
  • simple and straightforward to use
  • gives greater choice than FPTP
  • has allowed some independent candidates to win
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88
Q

Disadvantages of SV

A
  • winner doesn’t need to get an absolute majority of votes cast
  • voters need to be able to identify top 2 candidates to be able to influence the outcome
  • least unpopular are more likely to win rather than the most popular
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89
Q

Why was SV used for electing mayor?

A
  • simple
  • only top 2 candidates after the first preference has been counted make it to final round meaning the winner has a clear mandate
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90
Q

name 5 sources of the UKs constitution

A

statute law
common law
works of authority
international treaties
conventions

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91
Q

what is statute law?

A

acts of parliament that affect and alter the british constitution
cover laws such as who can vote and how elections are run

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92
Q

what is common law?

A

laws passed down over the years by legal judgements in courts
the magna carta is based on common law

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93
Q

what does unitary mean?

A

all power ultimately derives from a central government

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94
Q

name some other countries that have an uncodified constitution

A

saudi arabia and new zealand

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95
Q

what is royal prerogative?

A

the historical powers of the monarch now effectively transferred to the prime minister

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96
Q

what are conventions?

A

unwritten traditions of how things are done
eg the 1945 salisbury addison convention that means lords are not allowed to delay policies from the governing parties manifesto

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97
Q

what are authoritative works?

A

the writings and books of constitutional experts that clarify and explain the inner workings of the constitution

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98
Q

what are international treaties and conventions?

A

treaties or agreements that the UK government has signed up to such as the european convention on human rights (ECHR)

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99
Q

Magna Carter (1215)

A

an agreement between king john and his barons
established the principle right to a fair trial
reissued and partially altered in following years
did not give many rights to ordinary people

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100
Q

Bill of rights

A

1689
another agreement between king and parliament
parliament must meet frequently
elections must be free
must be complete freedom of speech within parliament known as parliamentary priveledge
no taxation without parliament’s agreement
created and embodied the notion of parliamentary sovereignty

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101
Q

Act of settlement

A

1701
only protestants could become the monarch or be married to the monarch
established the principle that the monarch existed on parliaments terms not vice versa

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102
Q

parliament acts

A

1911 and 49
significantly reduced the power and rights of the lords
1911 reduced their power to absolute veto over legislation and a 2 year delay only
1949 act reduced the delay to just one year
both acts increased the powers of the commons over the house of lords

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103
Q

European communities act

A

1972
brought in by the conservative government of edward heath and marked the entry of the UK into what is now the EU
represented a weakening of parliamentary sovereignty as all british law had to comply with EU law
affected immigration
the 2016 Brexit vote shows how this can be undone

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104
Q

name some recent constitutional developments

A

creation and expansion of powers to devolved assemblies
major reform of the house of lords
the HRA in 1998
laws that enhance individual rights such as the freedom of information act
the EU withdrawal act 2018

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105
Q

freedom of information act

A

2000
requires public bodies such as government departments and the NHS to:
- publish and make publicly available certain information about their activities
- allow members of the public to request info from these public authorities via a freedom on information request

to make an FOI request you need to contact the information commissioners office (ICO)

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106
Q

Fixed term parliaments act 2011

A

weakened the power of the PM to call a snap election
parliament now needs 2/3 majority to call an early election
designed to enhance the stability of a fragile coalition
been repealed

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107
Q

individual rights

A

apply to individuals such as the right to free expression

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108
Q

collective rights

A

those that apply to a group of people eg workers rights in specific jobs

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109
Q

how many hereditary peers are there

A

92

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110
Q

how many church of england bishops are there in the HoL

A

26

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111
Q

entrenched or inalienable

A

something that cannot be taken away

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112
Q

why is the commons the dominant house

A

the 1911 and 49 parliament acts severely limited the power of the lords

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113
Q

executive

A

the government comprising of all ministers and led by the prime minister

all government ministers including the prime minister are either MPs (most) or peers for example david cameron is in cabinet and therefore government but he is a peer

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114
Q

how many members of the HoL are there

A

around 800

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115
Q

who are most laws drawn up by?

A

the government and rubber stamped by parliament after debates and votes

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116
Q

government

A

the party in power

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117
Q

parliament

A

the house of commons and the house of lords

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118
Q

is parliament a law making body?
what 2 categories do bills fall into?

A

yes and no - in reality aside from private members bills, most laws are drawn up in advance by the government (the party in power)

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119
Q

what is scrutiny of the executive

A

checking that the government is working well and doing what its mean to do properly

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120
Q

how does parliament scrutinise the executive

A

PMQs
Debate in both chambers
Select committees.
New bills that MPs can amend
Parliament has the final say in all new legislation
A vote of no confidence by the Commons

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121
Q

what is a public bill committee

A

temporary committee only existing for the specific bill being scrutinised

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122
Q

what is a select committee

A

permanent committees that have a brief to provide wider oversight of government departments and their actions, they do not scrutinise individual pieces of legislation

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123
Q

what do parliamentary debates do?

A

one of the main ways MPs get to scrutinise govt
allow the opposition to say how they would do things if they were in government

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124
Q

how many opposition days are there

A

20
the official opposition get 17, the rest are split between other opposition parties

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125
Q

what is the legislative process?

A

the steps a bill passes through to become law

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126
Q

where does a bill start?

A

the HoC or HoL

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127
Q

what are the steps to the legislative process?

A

first reading
second reading
committee stage
report (consideration) stage
third reading
house of Lords
consideration of amendments
royal assent

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128
Q

first reading

A

the bill is formally introduced to parliament with no oppurtunity for debate or vote

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129
Q

second reading

A

The first opportunity for debate questioning and voting.
Amendments can be proposed and voted on.
Governments can face defeat at this stage
> in dec 2017 the commons voted 309 to 305 to give parliament the final say on the brexit deal

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130
Q

committee stage

A

this is a chance to go over the Bell and any amendments made in the second reading.
Each bill is given its own public bill committee comprised of back bench MPs who got over all the clauses of the bill.
Major changes are rare as the party always has a majority in the committee
pressure groups and individual MPs can submit evidence and address the committee at this stage

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131
Q

report (consideration stage)

A

Any changes made at the committee stage are discussed and voted on. This is the last chance for MPs to propose future amendments.

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132
Q

third reading

A

this is a short debate.
No further changes can be introduced at this stage.
A final vote on the bill takes place before it goes for Royal assent provided it has passed through the full stages in both houses

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133
Q

consideration of amendments

A

each house considers considers the others amendments before the bill goes to royal assent. Either house can agree to or reject amendments as well as suggest new ones. If the amendments are rejected the bill passes back which can lead to a process called ‘ping pong’. If the houses can’t agree the bill falls into deadlock and fails.
The safety of Rwanda bill fell into deadlock.

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134
Q

royal assent

A

This is the final stage of a bill. Once both Houses agree on it, or just the Commons if the Parliament Act has been used, it then goes to the monarch, who will then officially agree to make the bill an act of parliament.

135
Q

public bill

A

laws that will apply to all people and organisations - most legislation falls into this category

136
Q

private bills

A

DIFFERENT TO PRIVATE MEMBERS BILLS (PMBs)
only change the law for specific individuals or organisations not the general public

137
Q

government bills

A

created and promoted by the government
all members of government would be expected to support

138
Q

private members bills

A

bills independently introduced by backbench MPs or peers
either 10 minute bills or selected as one of 20 winners in the annual ballot
few PMBs become law due to time limits on their debates those that do are usually non controversial such as the Botulinum toxin and cosmetic fillers act which prevented botox being administered to under 18s

PRIVATE MEMBERS BILLS ARE ALSO PUBLIC BILLS.
DO NOT CONFUSE WITH PRIVATE BILLS.

139
Q

how do some people describe the lords?

A

a ‘think again’ chamber
the lords revise and amend legislation and act as a check on the commons

140
Q

name a bill that has been introduced to the lords first and why

A

bills that are non controversial may be introduced to the lords first as they are uncontroversial
one example is the 2021 air traffic management and unnamed aircraft act

141
Q

why is it rare for the lords to reject a bill outright?

A

if they do, the parliament act is invoked and the bill automatically becomes law after a year. The Lord can and do make amendments to bills which are subsequently debated and voted on in the Commons. This may cause ping pong.

142
Q

when has the government amended a clause in a bill due to the house of lords?

A

Safety of Rwanda bill house of lords amended the bill to add protections for people who may be a victim of modern slavery or human trafficking.

143
Q

what is the burkean or trustee model?

A

that voters should trust their MP with acting in their best interests. this means an MP will consider their constituents best interests but will also exercise their own judgement. usually considered as their superior and better educated knowledge.

144
Q

what is the delegate model?

A

the opposite of the trustee model
MPs are viewed as mouthpieces for their constituents and entirely bound by their wishes.

145
Q

mandate theory

A

MPs are elected to carry out the manifesto promises of their party.
This is the prevalent model in modern British politics, because of how parties work: you vote for a party really rather than an MP and they do what they set out in their manifesto.
It reflects the fact that most people vote for a party rather than an individual MP.

146
Q

what roles do MPs and peers have?

A

vote on legislation
sit in parliamentary committees
serve in government as a minister or shadow cabinet
contribute to debates
introduce their own bills to parliament (PMBs)
make media appearances and give interviews
enjoy parliamentary priveledge

147
Q

what additional roles do MPs have that peers don’t?

A

serve their constituents
Hold regular surgeries.
Undertake back bench rebellions
Select party leader.
Provide democratic legitimacy to government.

148
Q

what additional roles do peers have that MPs don’t?

A

contribute their specialised knowledge in debate (eg if they’re from a background of business or science)
maintain independence.
Revise and advise on legislation

149
Q

crossbenchers

A

independent peers (non political party associated)

150
Q

why do the lords not represent voters directly?

A

The Lords are an unelected chamber many of its members are affiliated to political party often being retired or defeated MPs so they indirectly fulfil the mandate representation model (being elected to carry out manifesto promises of the party)

151
Q

what’s the difference between lords select committees and commons select committees?

A

common select committees:
GENERAL oversight of the workings of government departments
chaired by opposition back benchers
able to select their own areas for investigation and can summon witnesses.

Lords select committees:
investigate SPECIALIST subjects taking advantage of the Lord’s expertise and the greater amount of time compared to MPs

152
Q

what do public accounts committees do?

A

they scrutinies value for money in public spending and how efficiently the government delivers public services

they are traditionally chaired by an experienced opposition back bencher and

153
Q

What do back bench business committees do?

A

they select topics for debate in Parliament on days not given over to government business and they oversee e-petitions

154
Q

what do Commons liaison committees do?

A

they are a group of all of the chairs of the common select committees.
They are usually chaired by a senior and independent minded backbencher of the governing party.
They choose select committee reports for debate in Westminster.
They question the prime minister on aspect of public policy usually three times a year.

155
Q

how effective and significant are select committees?

A

select committee produced dozens of report each year

> covered the 2019-21 parliamentary session with the governments handling of the covid 19 pandemic and cladding on flats following grenfell

it is estimated that around 40% of of committee recommendations are accepted by government and implemented

Committee chairs are paid a salary equivalent to that of a junior minister

156
Q

what is the role of the opposition?

A

to scrutinise the government
To suggest amendments to bills
To argue what they would do if they were in power.
To provide a government in waiting especially with a shadow cabinet.
To nominate the topics for debate on the 17 opposition days per year

157
Q

how does parliament influence on government decisions?

A

the committee system and committee reports
the election of select committee chairs and members
debate and questions
back bench rebellions in the Commons
Informal lobbying of ministers by MPs and peers
Amending legislation especially in the Lords

158
Q

how is parliaments influence on the government limited?

A

governments can and do ignore select committee reports.
Select committee are poorly resourced compared to government department.
Government majorities usually see off backbench revolts
Party whips ensure party discipline.
Many MPs aspired promotion so are wary of upsetting the party leadership the government can use its common majority to override the Lord amendments or rejection of a bill using if necessary the parliament act

159
Q

what are party whips?

A

MPs in charge of persuading their parties MPs to remain loyal. they do this by argument and something prospect of promotion. All parties use whips.

160
Q

what is a three line whip?

A

A parliamentary vote when MPs must follow the voting orders of the whips.

Failure to do so by a minister would lead to resignation or dismissal. Backbenches who frequently rebel are unlikely to be offered a job they want.

161
Q

what is a free vote?

A

vote when MPs are free to vote how they wish rather than being instructed to vote a certain way by the party leadership. Votes on matters of conscience such assisted dying or abortion are usually free votes. 

162
Q

when is party discipline most fragile?

A

when a government only has a small majority or seeks to get through legislation that is controversial.

163
Q

how do whips work?

A

whips work by exerting further control over party discipline by controlling the allocation of MPs to public bill committees

164
Q

how does the government control civil servants? (select committees)

A

original osmotherly rules allowed civil servants to be evasive and vague in their answers
however, revised rules say CS must be as helpful as possible in providing accurate and true information.

> In 2016 the home affairs select committee ejected Oliver Robbins, a senior civil servant, for failing to respond adequately to questions about the budget of the U.K.’s border force.

165
Q

osmotherly rules

A

this is guidance given to civil servants and other government officials appearing before select communities. Various versions of the rules have been an operation since 1980 but they have never been formally accepted by parliament.

166
Q

who are laws that the government passes interpreted and enforced by?

A

the judiciary (judges, magistrates, tribunal members, and coroners)

167
Q

what is the UK supreme court?

A

the highest court of appeal in the UK
has the power to make judgements based on the ECHR

168
Q

does the UK have a unified legal system?

A

no because there are differences between England and wales and Scotland and Northern Ireland

169
Q

how is the UK judiciary organised?

A

hierarchically

170
Q

what is the judiciary concerned with?

A

applying law and ensuring that the government and other public institutions such as local councils follow their own rules (rule of law)

171
Q

what does the judiciary have a crucial role in?

A

protecting citizens rights

172
Q

what is the organisation of the judiciary in the UK?

A
173
Q

what is judicial independence?

A

the notion that judges are free from government interference (they are independent)

174
Q

how is judicial independence maintained?

A

an independent appointments process
permanent job security
salaries set by independent body

175
Q

what is judicial impartiality or neutrality?

A

the notion that judges are neutral or objective when they make judgements and not swayed by personal opinion or popular pressure.
This is backed up by professional training and the requirements that UKSC judges must have lots of legal experience.

176
Q

what is separation of powers?

A

the judiciary is separate from parliment and governments in terms of employees and buildings. this is crucial to judicial independence and upholding the rule of law.

177
Q

what is judicial review?

A

when a judge reviews the legality of a decision made by a public body (including the government)

178
Q

how could you argue that the judiciary IS too powerful?

A

judges are unelected and cannot be removed easily
the HRA 1998 means judges get involved in politics and can clash with the government
judges make huge decisions which can have an impact over life and death
judicial review means judges can force government departments and public bodies to change their policies

179
Q

how could you argue that the judiciary IS NOT too powerful?

A

judges need to be independent of politics to be impartial and fair to everyone
judges only interpret laws passed by parliament
judges are experienced legal professionals
the courts make sure that those in power stick to the rules themselves

180
Q

how are judges appointed?

A

based on merit and experience
politicians have no real say
all below the SC are appointed by the independent judicial appointments commission (JAC)

181
Q

why has the judiciary been criticised?

A

it’s composition in terms of gender, race, education levels and social background.
the most senior levels have been accused of being too privileged, pale and male.

182
Q

who is the lord chancellor?

A

the governments senior minister in charge of the law and justice as well as political appointment.
the lord chancellor is a member of the cabinet and in charge of the department of justice.

183
Q

evidence for a lack of diversity among judges

A

> under representation of women: 2/12 in the UKSC and 25% in the court of appeal in 2021
lack of black, asian and minority ethnic judges: none in the UKSC and 8% of all judges in 2021
domination of public schools and oxbridge grads: 11/12 of the UKSC justices on 2021 went to oxbridge

184
Q

does a lack of diversity in the judiciary matter? (yes)

A

judges don’t reflect society
makes it hard for judges to understand cultural context of some cases
little improvement in diversity in the last decade
reduces public trust
more input from democratically elected representatives would help bolster diversity

185
Q

does a lack of diversity in the judiciary matter? (no)

A

judges are chosen based on expertise
exist to apply the law neutrally and professionally
diversity is growing lower down the judiciary
may lead to politicisation of the judiciary

186
Q

when was the supreme court set up?

A

2009 following the 2006 constitutional reform act

187
Q

what did the UKSC replace?

A

the law lords as the highest court

188
Q

how many UKSC judges are there

A

12

189
Q

how can candidates be elidgible for the UKSC?

A

2 years in a senior judicial role or 15 years as a barrister or solicitor

190
Q

what do judges enjoy?

A

permanent job security until compulsory retirement age of 70

191
Q

what is the UKSC free of?

A

political pressure

192
Q

what are the main roles of the UKSC?

A

final court of appeal for all UK civil cases and criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland
his appeal from the general public
Enforces the ECHR in the UK
acts as the final court of appeal for a number of British overseas territories and formal colonies such as Jamaica

193
Q

what is the appointment procedure to the UKSC?

A
  1. vacancies are filled by a special selection commission
  2. the commission consults with certain senior judges before putting forward a name
  3. the lord chancellor accepts or rejects the nomination but can’t put forward a candidate themselves
194
Q

name and describe some cases heard by the ECHR

A
195
Q

what is the ECtHR and where is it located?

A

European Court of human rights located in Strasbourg

196
Q

what does EU law deal with?

A

areas overseen by the EU, primarily trade and migration

197
Q

when has the UK government ignored the rulings of the ECtHR?

A

in 2005 the ECtHR ruled that a blanket ban on denying prisoners the vote was incompatible but parliment did not change the law

198
Q

when did devolution begin?

A

1999

199
Q

what is devolution?

A

the delegation of power from the UK parliament in westminster to assemblies in Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh

200
Q

is westminster parliament able to pass laws for any part of the UK?

A

yes, but in practice it only deals with devolved matters with the agreement of devolved governments

201
Q

how many members does Senedd Cymru have?

A

60

202
Q

how many members does the northern ireland assembly have?

A

90

203
Q

what voting system does scottish parliament use?

A

AMS

204
Q

what voting system does the senedd use?

A

AMS

205
Q

what voting system does the northern ireland assembly use?

A

STV

206
Q

what key powers do all 3 devolved bodies have?

A

Agriculture, Environment, Education, Health, Transport

207
Q

what powers do all 3 devolved bodies lack?

A

Foreign policy, Brexit negotiations, defence and national security

208
Q

devolution timeline (don’t need to know just useful)

A
209
Q

had devolution worked in the regions? (yes)

A

strengthened the union
expanded the powers of devolved assemblies
consolidated peace protests in NI
enabled devolved nations go make laws that suit them best

210
Q

has devolution worked in the regions? (no)

A

the result of the full independence referendum in 2014 were close and many people want a second vote
tensions remain in NI
created unevenness across the UK especially prevalent during covid

211
Q

what were the troubles?

A

a period from the late 1960s when much of NI was affected by terrorism including bombings and assassinations carried out by terrorists from both communities.

Unionists/protestants wanted to remain part of the UK and Nationalists/Catholics who wanted a united ireland. terrorists belonged to groups such as the ITA or the Ulster defence association

212
Q

which is the only region of the UK not to have a devolved assembly?

A

England meaning devolution in the UK is asymmetrical
Instead, England has various tiers of local governments with different degrees of power and responsibility.

213
Q

unitary authorities

A

what a single council carries out all the functions of local authorities, including major ones such as education and social care.

214
Q

what are metro mayors?

A

nine large cities or regions in England have metro mass who serve several combined local authorities. they are democratically elected.

215
Q

what are the limits on local government?

A

they have limited legislative powers (although they can introduce measures such as congestion charges in london)
most functions that involve carrying out responsibilities and roles are decided by central government
most revenue raising is tightly controlled by central government (for example council tax cant be raised)

216
Q

arguments for an english parliament?

A

it would bring parity across the UK regarding devolution.
An English Parliament could be located away from the capital and thus reduce London’s current dominance of politics and the media.
It allow an alternative electoral system to be used and therefore resolve the issue of electoral reform
Would resolve the West Lothian question

217
Q

what is the west lothian question?

A

Scottish, Welsh and NI MPs have a vote on matters that only affect england whereas english MPs don’t have a vote on devolved matters

218
Q

Arguments against an english parliament?

A

England lacked the national identity of Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
There is no widespread support.
England is much larger in terms of population than the other regions.
Regional assemblies would add an extra cost and bureaucracy to the UK political system.
There are other ways to resolve the West Lothian question such as EVEL laws
An English parliament would raise the issues of what role the purpose of the Westminster Parliament is

219
Q

what are EVEL laws?

A

EVEL - English Vote for English Laws
this is an extra stage that was introduced in the middle of the law making process allowing English MPs to block anything they did not like in bills deemed to be England only. this was abolished in 2021 as the government argued it was too complex and time consuming.

220
Q

name some of the prime ministers functions

A

leading the government
selecting the cabinet
being the dominant figure in the core executive
representing the country abroad
hosting UK based international gatherings such as the 2021 Glasgow COP26
being the party leader
chairing cabinet meetings
heading up the civil service
being the monarchs first minister

221
Q

what is the core executive?

A

the collective term for key players in government policy making

includes the PM, the cabinet and its various committees, the cabinet office, and senior civil servants

the core executive is more wide ranging that just the executive

222
Q

what does primus inter pares mean?

A

the notion that the prime minister is first among equals among fellow members of the cabinet

223
Q

who is the executive?

A

the prime minister and cabinet

224
Q

what are the prime ministers main powers and resources?

A

prerogative powers
shaping and deciding policy
choosing and promoting or demoting cabinet
high profile media
world leader
able to make use of civil servants
able to claim authority or mandate

225
Q

how many ministers and key officials are there in the cabinet?

A

just over 20

226
Q

when does cabinet meet?

A

once a week usually on Thursday mornings

227
Q

what is collective cabinet responsibility?

A

the principle whereby all members of the cabinet support its decisions in public even if they disagree with them in private

228
Q

what are cabinet committees?

A

groups of ministers that make collective decisions, many of them routine. their membership and topics of discussion are decided by the PM. They tend to comprise ministers from several departments to enable a joined up govt.

229
Q

what is a joined up government?

A

A policy to make departments in the same government work together

230
Q

what are some examples of cabinet committees?

A

European Union Exit and Trade Committee - oversees the UKs exit negotiations with the EU

231
Q

what is individual ministerial responsibility?

A

the notion that each minister is personally responsible for the actions and outcomes of their department

This involves answering questions in the commons and the media on behalf of their department

232
Q

give an example of when a minister was dismissed from breaking individual ministerial code

A

Priti Patel was forced to resign as international development secretary in 2017 for not being open and honest about secrets meetings with Israeli ministers and business people while on a private holiday in Israel

233
Q

what is collective cabinet responsibility?

A

the convention that all ministers and not just those in cabinet are bound by government policies and must defend and promotors them in public, a minister who can’t should resign.

Occasionally this is suspended by the PM when there are clear and open divisions in cabinet such as surrounding Brexit.
Free votes are also not bound.

234
Q

what kind of democracy is the UK?

A

representative

235
Q

name some groups that campaigned for the right to vote

A

the chartists, the suffragists and the suffragettes

236
Q

direct democracy

A

when people make decisions not the government. votes take place on specific questions.

237
Q

representative democracy

A

a system of democracy in which people vote for elected representatives. the representatives make decisions on their behalf.

238
Q

advantages of direct democracy

A

people can participate directly
the wishes of the people cannot be ignored
people can be motivated to be well informed about politics
decisions have better legitimacy

239
Q

disadvantages of direct democracy

A

the public may not fully understand what they are voting on
majority of people may vote for soemthing that undermines the minority
people may vote for emotional reasons in the short term rather than taking a long term view
holding so many votes is slow and expensive

240
Q

what is a liberal democracy

A

A type of representative democracy in which the rule of law is followed, the freedom of citizens is protected by the government and many different political parties complete freely to win power.

241
Q

suffrage acts in the UK?

A
242
Q

why were women denied the vote?

A

traditionally seen as the weaker sex.
Not considered have sufficient education.
Too emotional.
Their place was at home

243
Q

why were lower classes denied the vote?

A

wealthy worried their power would be reduced.
working class men were too poorly educated.
May support socialism threatening economic welfare.
Working class often sacrificed in wars

244
Q

why were certain ethnicities denied the right to vote?

A

people of colour have been historically under represented in parliament.
> black and Asian voters were less likely than the general population to register to vote in 2019

245
Q

why have people been denied the right to vote due to age?

A

Not seen as sufficiently educated
To emotional and unstable

> 18-20 year olds only received the vote in 1969
16-17 year olds were allowed to vote in the scottish independence referendum as it was recognised the decision would effect the rest of their lives. they had a higher turnout than 18-24 year olds

246
Q

when were the chartists active and what did they do?

A

1838-48

campaigned for votes for all men over 21
wanted secret ballots, no property qualifications for MPs, pay for MPs, equal sized constituencies and yearly elections to parliament

movement died out but they got their aims in reform acts of 67 and 84 anyway

247
Q

when were the suffragists active and what did they do?

A

1860s-1918

peaceful methods like petitions, speeches, marches and letter writing

formed the national union of women’s suffrage (NUWSS) in 1897 which had more than 100,000 members by 1914

factions split to the suffragettes in 1903 due to a lack of achievement

248
Q

when were the suffragettes active and what did they do?

A

1903-14

used militant methods such as window breaking, chaining themselves to railings and arson

received harsh prison sentences which they attempted to reduce by hunger striking
emily davidson killed by kings horse in 1913 at derby
movement died down when war broke out

dealt with harshly including being force fed
attracted national attention and coverage
criticised by suffragists for violence
govt refused to give in to violence
funding and membership fell over arson campaign

women were enfranchised in 1918 for their war efforts and likely as the government was eager to return to violence.

249
Q

when were women given the vote?

A

women were enfranchised in 1918 for their war efforts and likely as the government was eager to return to violence.

250
Q

case study of a prisoner attempting to regain their right to vote

A

John Hirst (imprisoned for manslaughter) appealed to the ECtHR to regain his right to vote in 2005 after being dismissed by the UK high court. the ECtHR agreed with him but the UK govt did not comply with the ruling.

251
Q

is there a participation crisis?
(yes)

A

turnout has fallen in recent decades
> in 1950 more than 80% of the electorate voted, in 2001 59% did
some elections have even worse turnout
> police and crime commissioner elections has 15% turnout in 2012
> european parliament elections in 2019 had a turnout of 37%
party membership has fallen
> in the 1950s the tories had more than 2.5 million members and labour over a million, in 2018 the tories had 124,000 members
partisan realignment
trade unions have less members and power
political apathy is high
disillusionment with politicians increased as a result of the 2009 expenses scandal
‘slacktivism’ is higher due to social media

252
Q

is there a participation crisis?
(no)

A

turnout in GEs has been rising since 2001 reaching a high of 69% in 2017
turnout in recent referendums has been high
> 85% voted in scottish independence and 72% in the 2016 EU referendum
if people care about an issue they will participate
labours membership has increased in recent years
> SNP membership more than quadrupled after the 2014 independence referendum
minor parties have done well over the last decade
> UKIP won EU parliament elections and received 3.9 million votes in the 2015 general election
pressure group membership has increased
internet movements have become very powerful and influential such as BLM with more than 210,000 people joining protests in the summer of 2020

253
Q

what was participation in the 2016 Brexit referendum?

A

72%

254
Q

partisan dealignment

A

The electorate becoming less strongly affiliated to political parties as a result of falling party membership numbers and an increase in the number of floating voters (people who don’t consistently vote for one party)

255
Q

pluralism

A

The benefit of many different groups influencing the decision-making process

256
Q

what are some suggested methods for increasing participation?

A

giving 16-year-olds the right to vote
Online voting
Compulsory voting
Changing the electoral system
Increasing political education in schools
Reducing the membership fees of political parties
More direct democracy 

257
Q

wasted votes

A

votes that do not contribute to the election of a political candidate

258
Q

tactical voting

A

when a voter does not vote for their preferred party because they do not belive that party will win. instead they vote for another party that has a better chance ususally to stop a party they dislike from winning.

259
Q

marginal seat

A

those seats where an MPs majority is small, meaning that it could easily be won by another party

260
Q

safe seat

A

those seats in which one party has such a large majority that it is highly unlikely it could be won by another party

261
Q

majoritarian system

A

requires a candidate to gain 50%, plus one vote to win. They are not proportional, so I likely to result in majority governments.

262
Q

proportional system

A

allocates seats in proportion to the number of votes received by each party. likely to result in coalition governments.

263
Q

STV as an alternative to FPTP

A
264
Q

what are the impacts of electoral systems on election results?

A

FPTP tends to produce a two-party system with a single party producing a majority government
in recent years more successful minority parties have led to coalitions and minority governments
minor parties thrived when PR was used
> PR is used in EU parliament elections
majoritarian systems such as SV tend to produce a 2 party system
proportional systems such as STV usually result in a multi party system
AMS has allowed a multi party system to emerge in scotland

265
Q

how does age influence voting behaviour?

A

> young people were more likely to vote labour than old people (over the age of 39) who were more likely to vote conservative in the 2019 GE
in the 2016 EU referendum a majority of 18-34 year olds of every social class voted to remain whereas a majority of over 55s in each social class voted to leave
turnout increases with age: less than 55% of 18-24 year olds voted in the 2019 GE compared to more than 80% of those 75 or older

266
Q

how does class influence voting behaviour

A

class used to be the main predictor of how people would vote
since the 1980s class dealignment has risen
education level was linked to voting behaviour in 2019: voters who were degree level or above were far more likely to vote Labour whilst others were likely to vote conservative

267
Q

how does gender influence voting behaviour

A

> some believe women are more likely to support parties that favour strong public services such as the NHS
women were more likely to vote remain
men and women’s turnout is equal
there was a very small gender gap in the 2019 election with women slightly more likely to vote Labour than men this was more pronounced among young people

268
Q

how does ethnicity influence voting behaviour

A

black asian and minority ethnic groups are significantly more likely to vote Labour than conservative
> in 2019, 64% BAME voters chose labour

269
Q

how does Geography influence voting behaviour

A

rural english area and southern constituencies are more likely be conservative
urban areas particularly London and the north are more likely to be labour, so is south wales
in 2019 the conservatives broke thought labours red wall in the midlands, the north and wales winning some traditionally safe labour seats
regional parties dominate in scotland and NI

270
Q

what are the three theories of voter choice?

A

rational choice theory
issue voting
valence issues

271
Q

rational choice theory

A

assumes that voters weigh up all the political options logically and vote for the party that will deliver the best result for them

272
Q

issue voting

A

voters prioritise one issue about all others and vote based on that

273
Q

valence issues

A

issues universally accepted to be important
voters choose a party based on how well that party is likely to perform on those issues
could be things such as the economy, healthcare or education

274
Q

who were the candidates in the 1983 election and what was the result

A

Margaret thatcher v Michael foot

thatcher won 397 seats and 42.4% of the vote
foot won 209 seats and 27.6% of the vote

275
Q

1997 general election

A

tony blair v john major

conservatives has been in power since 79 and recently tainted by sex scandals

Labour won a 179 seat majority (their best result ever)

New labour
suns support
third way (balance between centre right economic policy and centre left social policy)
conservatives divided over europe (new labour new danger campaign)
blair very charismatic

huge majority allowed for wide policy implementation

276
Q

what were spin doctors?

A

political operatives who shape a politician’s message for max positive publicity

used very well in 1997 election

277
Q

third way

A

1997 manifesto promise that was a compromise between centre right economic policy and centre left social policy which focused on social justice

278
Q

2019 general election

A

Boris Johnson v Jeremy Corbyn

conservatives were a minority and deeply divided
johnson called for a snap election for
December (passed the early parliamentary general election act 2019 to bypass the fixed elections act of 2011)

conservatives won an 80 seat majority taking 54 seats from Labour and broke through the red wall

sun daily mail and express all supported Conservatives
Labour outspent conservatives in social media ads focused on FB and YTB
Both parties excluded minorities from the race in terms of TV appearances

johnson repeated get brexit done
corbyn seen as weak leader
labours brexit position was criticised

279
Q

2010 general election

A

david cameron v gordon brown v nick clegg

conservatives: 306
labour: 258
LDs: 52

notable as resulted in a coalition government with cameron and clegg
clegg had performed well in the run up to the election and was well liked
however during his time in office this failed as many people thought the LDs bowed to the will of the tories

clegg performed well in debates
expenses scandal had recently occurred and MPs involved were ordered not to stand

280
Q

name 5 referendums

A

UK European communities membership referendum 1975
Greater London authority referendum 1998
UK alternative vote referendum 2011
Scottish independence referendum 2014
UK European Union membership referendum 2016

281
Q

UK alternative vote referendum 2011

A

under Lib dem coalition
public failed to understand complexities of AV and campaigns didn’t help

42% turn out
68% voted to keep AV

turnout and rejection levels mean voting system change again is not likely

282
Q

UK European Union membership referendum 2016

A

included in 2015 conservative manifesto
included to stop Tory voters switching to UKIP and to placate Eurosceptic in the tory party

leave campaigns were criticised for inaccuracy while remain focused on the negatives of leaving and failed to give positives of staying

72% turnout
52% voted leave 48% remain

cameron resigned as his political gamble had failed
theresa may also remain took his place
public was divided
MPs struggled to agree on a deal

283
Q

Greater london authority referendum 1998

A

part of blair’s devolution programme

34% turnout
72% voted yes

london gained its own assembly and an elected mayor

284
Q

what is the impact of referendums on democracy

A

positive:
enhance direct democracy
high turnout is evidence of improved political participation give legitimacy to important decisions.
Regular use of referendum since 1998 suggest that they have been effective means of decision-making.
The electorate has surprised the government on several occasion causing shifts in policy that would not have happened otherwise

Negative :
Government still holds the power not the people (they don’t tend to hold referendum that they think they’ll lose, Brexit is exception )
Low turnout suggest that public are not always engaged.
Can threaten Parliamentary sovereignty and representative democracy.
Poor quality campaigns can mislead or confuse the public.
often offer no protection against the tyranny of the majority

285
Q

which MP broke minister code by perverting the course of justice?

A

Chris Huhne got his wife to lie to the police that she was driving so he avoided getting speeding points on his driving license which would have caused him to lose it. She caught him cheating and snitched.

resigned as an MP due to personal scandals.

286
Q

what is a vote of no confidence often described as?

A

the nuclear option

287
Q

conservative party origins

A

dates back to 1834
traditionally represented the wealthy (benjamin disraeli created one nation conservatism to attract working class)
dominated UK politics in the 20th century with 67 years in office

288
Q

conservative development

A

accepted post war consensus before thatcher became leader
thatcher moved party sharply to right and adopted a confident foreign policy
2010 coalition
eu referendum
may removed universal free school meals
then failed to win a majority
johnson won and left eu then struggled with covid

289
Q

thatcherism

A

thatchers distinct brand of conservatism - included a monetarist economic policy, deregulation of business and finance, privatisation of industry and restriction of trade union powers

290
Q

post war consensus

A

the acceptance by both main political parties that britain should retain the post-war settlement (welfare state introduced by the 1945 labour gov)

291
Q

populist

A

a person who presents themselves as the champion of the ordinary people and defends their interests against the wealthy elite

292
Q

labour party origins

A

labour representation committee formed in 1900 but didn’t become the labour party until 1906
included left wing groups and trade unions
rejected revolutionary socialism and focused on social democracy
did not win a majority until 1945 creating the NHS and a welfare state

293
Q

socialism

A

an ideology aiming for equality between people through common ownership of production

294
Q

social democracy

A

the democratic version of socialism

295
Q

development of the labour party

A

moved to the left after its 1979 defeat by thatcher
blair adopted the third way under new labour which balanced centre right economic policy with centre left social policy - won a landslide
went downhill after war in iraq
brown didn’t recover after 2008 economic crisis
ed milligan’s moved party to the left and was vilified by newspapers
corbyn broke new labour and moved to the left

296
Q

triangulation

A

blair’s repositioning of new labour on the political spectrum moving towards thatcherism economic policy but retaining labour social values

297
Q

liberal democrat origins

A

formed from 2 different parties - the liberal party and the sdp in 1988
liberal party was one of the main 2 but was pushed into third place by labour
the sdp formed in 1981 when 4 of the main politicians left labour
they were known as the gang of four and joined the liberal party to create the alliance

298
Q

what is liberalism

A

an ideology based on freedom including individual freedom and free trade

299
Q

example for electoral reform

A

the alliance won 26% of the vote in 1983 but only 23 seats in the HoC

300
Q

liberal democrat development

A

charles kennedy oversaw the parties best result of 62 seats in 2005 partly due to the parties opposition of the iraq war
nick clegg formed a coalition in 2010 causing then to raise tuition fees making them unpopular
coalition also reduced public spending
campaigned for remain but failed

301
Q

policies of the 3 main parties

A
302
Q

what is the structure of a political party?

hint: answer is diagram

A
303
Q

what 5 functions does a political party have?

A

representation
participation
recruitment
policy
government

304
Q

structure and membership of the 3 main parties

A
305
Q

how do the 3 main parties appoint a leader?

A
306
Q

what are each of the 3 parties methods for establishing policy?

A
307
Q

what are some sources of party funding?

A

membership fees
small donations from members
large donations from wealthy donors
trade unions
state funding

308
Q

examples of large donations from wealthy donors

A

blair accepted £1 million donation from F1 tycoon bernie ecclestone
Blair then gave F1 an exemption to the ban on tobacco advertising at sporting events

Frank hester donated £10 million to the tories after making racist remarks about diane abbot

309
Q

what are the 4 types of state funding for parties?

A

short money
cranbourne money
policy development grants
support for election campaigns

310
Q

what is short money?

A

funds paid to opposition parties to cover administrative costs and make sure they can scrutinise government effectively

311
Q

what is cranborne money?

A

funds paid to opposition parties in the HoL to cover administrative costs and enable effective scrutiny

312
Q

what are policy development grants?

A

any party with 2 or more MPs is allocated a share of £2 million annual fund to help develop policy

313
Q

what is support for election campaigns money?

A

royal mail will send one free campaign mailing to every elector in the UK, and parties receive free airtime for televised election broadcasts

314
Q

when has party funding been reformed?

A

the Political parties, elections and referendums acts (PPERA) 2000
> spending limit of £30,000 per constituency on ge campaigns
> donations over £7500 must be reported to the electoral commission

the Political parties and elections act (PPEA) 2009
> allowed the electoral commission to investigate cases and impose fines
> increased the requirement for establishing the source of political donations

315
Q

example of the newspapers describing corbyn badly

A

in 2015 the sun described him as ‘the most dangerous man to ever stand for high office in britain’

316
Q

how many extra votes is murdochs support of blair likely to have won the sun?

A

one study suggested as many as half a million

317
Q

how much did labour and the conservatives spend on social media in the 2019 general election?

A

labour spent £1.4 million and the conservatives £900,000

318
Q

what factors affect electoral outcomes?

A
319
Q

what are some of the policies of minor parties?

A
320
Q

what is some evidence for the uk having a multi or a two party system?

A
321
Q

what are insider groups?

A

those that are consulted by the government

322
Q

what are outside groups?

A

groups not consulted by the government and instead try and influence political decision making from the outside.

some groups work towards insider status while others are ideologically opposed to the government

323
Q

insider pressure group case study

A
324
Q

outsider pressure group case study

A
325
Q

what are causal groups?

A

those that promote a specific cause such as the housing and homeless charity Shelter.

326
Q

what are sectional groups?

A

groups that exist to defend the interests of a particular group or section of society
such as trade unions or the National Education union

327
Q

what methods do pressure groups working within the system use?

A
328
Q

what methods do pressure groups working outside the system use?

A
329
Q

what factors affect the influence of pressure groups?

A
330
Q

what are some other influences on governments aside from pressure groups?

A
331
Q

what is pluralism?

A

Pluralism describes a situation in which different groups, including pressure groups, compete equally for power and influence. Power is therefore spread across different groups in society. It is the opposite of elitism — the idea that powerful elites dominate society and government.

332
Q

are pressure groups good for democracy?

A
333
Q

parliamentary priveledge

A

freedom of speech within parliament

Politics (4 decks)

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