UK Politics Flashcards

Question

Parliamentary Sovereignty

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

- 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

Answer 3

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.

Answer 4

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.

Answer 5

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.

Answer 6

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.

Answer 7

- 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.

Answer 8

- 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

Answer 9

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

Answer 10

- 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.

Answer 11

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.

Answer 12

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.

Answer 13

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

Answer 14

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.

Answer 15

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.

Answer 16

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.

Answer 17

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.

Answer 18

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.

Answer 19

"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.

Answer 20

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.

Answer 21

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.

Answer 22

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.

Answer 23

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

Answer 24

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.

Answer 25

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.

Answer 26

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.

Answer 27

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.

Answer 28

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.

Answer 29

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.

Answer 30

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.

Answer 31

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.

Answer 32

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.

Answer 33

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

Answer 34

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.

Answer 35

- close ties with the government - eg national farmers union

Answer 36

- use different measures outside the government - eg extinction rebellion

Answer 37

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.

Answer 38

the changes a party aim to go and make

Answer 39

protests, petitions, violence, strikes

Answer 40

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

Answer 41

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.

Answer 42

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

Answer 43

The candidate with the most votes is elected as MP

Answer 44

- 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

Answer 45

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

Answer 46

- 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

Answer 47

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

Answer 48

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

Answer 49

- 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

Answer 50

Additional Member System (AMS)

Answer 51

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

Answer 52

- 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

Answer 53

- 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

Answer 54

- 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

Answer 55

- 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

Answer 56

- 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

Answer 57

Single Transferable Vote (STV)

Answer 58

- 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

Answer 59

- 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

Answer 60

- 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

Answer 61

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

Answer 62

- 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

Answer 63

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

Answer 64

statute law common law works of authority international treaties conventions

Answer 65

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

Answer 66

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

Answer 67

all power ultimately derives from a central government

Answer 68

saudi arabia and new zealand

Answer 69

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

Answer 70

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

Answer 71

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

Answer 72

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

Answer 73

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

Answer 74

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

Answer 75

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

Answer 76

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

Answer 77

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

Answer 78

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

Answer 79

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)

Answer 80

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

Answer 81

apply to individuals such as the right to free expression

Answer 82

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

Answer 83

something that cannot be taken away

Answer 84

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

Answer 85

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

Answer 86

around 800

Answer 87

the government and rubber stamped by parliament after debates and votes

Answer 88

the party in power

Answer 89

the house of commons and the house of lords

Answer 90

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

Answer 91

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

Answer 92

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

Answer 93

temporary committee only existing for the specific bill being scrutinised

Answer 94

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

Answer 95

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

Answer 96

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

Answer 97

the steps a bill passes through to become law

Answer 98

the HoC or HoL

Answer 99

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

Answer 100

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

Answer 101

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

Answer 102

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

Answer 103

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

Answer 104

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

Answer 105

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.

Answer 106

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.

Answer 107

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

Answer 108

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

Answer 109

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

Answer 110

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.

Answer 111

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

Answer 112

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

Answer 113

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.

Answer 114

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.

Answer 115

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.

Answer 116

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

Answer 117

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.

Answer 118

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

Answer 119

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

Answer 120

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

Answer 121

independent peers (non political party associated)

Answer 122

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)

Answer 123

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

Answer 124

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

Answer 125

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

Answer 126

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.

Answer 127

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

Answer 128

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

Answer 129

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

Answer 130

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

Answer 131

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.

Answer 132

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.

Answer 133

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.

Answer 134

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

Answer 135

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

Answer 136

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.

Answer 137

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.

Answer 138

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

Answer 139

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

Answer 140

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

Answer 141

hierarchically

Answer 142

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

Answer 143

protecting citizens rights

Answer 144

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

Answer 145

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

Answer 146

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.

Answer 147

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.

Answer 148

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

Answer 149

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

Answer 150

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

Answer 151

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

Answer 152

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.

Answer 153

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.

Answer 154

> 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

Answer 155

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

Answer 156

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

Answer 157

2009 following the 2006 constitutional reform act

Answer 158

the law lords as the highest court

Answer 159

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

Answer 160

permanent job security until compulsory retirement age of 70

Answer 161

political pressure

Answer 162

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

Answer 163

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

Answer 164

European Court of human rights located in Strasbourg

Answer 165

areas overseen by the EU, primarily trade and migration

Answer 166

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

Answer 167

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

Answer 168

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

Answer 169

Agriculture, Environment, Education, Health, Transport

Answer 170

Foreign policy, Brexit negotiations, defence and national security

Answer 171

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

Answer 172

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

Answer 173

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

Answer 174

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

Answer 175

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

Answer 176

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

Answer 177

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)

Answer 178

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

Answer 179

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

Answer 180

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

Answer 181

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.

Answer 182

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

Answer 183

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

Answer 184

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

Answer 185

the prime minister and cabinet

Answer 186

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

Answer 187

just over 20

Answer 188

once a week usually on Thursday mornings

Answer 189

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

Answer 190

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.

Answer 191

A policy to make departments in the same government work together

Answer 192

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

Answer 193

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

Answer 194

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

Answer 195

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.

Answer 196

representative

Answer 197

the chartists, the suffragists and the suffragettes

Answer 198

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

Answer 199

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

Answer 200

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

Answer 201

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

Answer 202

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.

Answer 203

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

Answer 204

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

Answer 205

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

Answer 206

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

Answer 207

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

Answer 208

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

Answer 209

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.

Answer 210

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

Answer 211

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.

Answer 212

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

Answer 213

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

Answer 214

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)

Answer 215

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

Answer 216

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

Answer 217

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

Answer 218

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.

Answer 219

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

Answer 220

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

Answer 221

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

Answer 222

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

Answer 223

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 > Labour won 411 seats in 2024 on 33.7% of the vote making it the least proportional GE in British history according to the Gallagher index

Answer 224

> 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

Answer 225

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

Answer 226

> 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

Answer 227

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

Answer 228

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

Answer 229

rational choice theory issue voting valence issues

Answer 230

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

Answer 231

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

Answer 232

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

Answer 233

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

Answer 234

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

Answer 235

political operatives who shape a politician’s message for max positive publicity used very well in 1997 election

Answer 236

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

Answer 237

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

Answer 238

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

Answer 239

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

Answer 240

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

Answer 241

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

Answer 242

part of blair’s devolution programme 34% turnout 72% voted yes london gained its own assembly and an elected mayor

Answer 243

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

Answer 244

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.

Answer 245

the nuclear option

Answer 246

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

Answer 247

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

Answer 248

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

Answer 249

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

Answer 250

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

Answer 251

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

Answer 252

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

Answer 253

the democratic version of socialism

Answer 254

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

Answer 255

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

Answer 256

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

Answer 257

an ideology based on freedom including individual freedom and free trade

Answer 258

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

Answer 259

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

Answer 260

representation participation recruitment policy government

Answer 261

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

Answer 262

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

Answer 263

short money cranbourne money policy development grants support for election campaigns

Answer 264

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

Answer 265

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

Answer 266

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

Answer 267

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

Answer 268

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

Answer 269

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

Answer 270

one study suggested as many as half a million

Answer 271

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

Answer 272

those that are consulted by the government

Answer 273

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

Answer 274

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

Answer 275

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

Answer 276

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.

Answer 277

freedom of speech within parliament

Answer 278

Short Money (House of Commons): • Who gets it? Opposition parties in the House of Commons. • Purpose: To help opposition parties carry out their Parliamentary duties, such as: • Research • Developing policy • Holding the government to account • Named after: Edward Short, a former Leader of the House of Commons. • Eligibility: Parties must have at least 2 MPs or 1 MP with at least 150,000 votes nationally. ⸻ Cranborne Money (House of Lords): • Who gets it? Opposition parties in the House of Lords. • Purpose: To support the work of Opposition front benches in the Lords. • Named after: Lord Cranborne (later Viscount Cranborne), a former Leader of the House of Lords.

Answer 279

Structural theory focuses on how political outcomes are shaped by institutions, systems, and structures (like the constitution, legal frameworks, class, or the electoral system). It suggests individuals act within constraints set by these structures, which limit their choices and influence their behaviour.

Answer 280

Cultural theory argues that political actions and outcomes are influenced by shared ideas, traditions, and values within a society or group. Behaviour is shaped by culture rather than just self-interest or structural constraints.

Answer 281

Rational theory assumes individuals act logically and in their own self-interest, making political decisions based on calculated outcomes. Politicians, voters, and institutions are seen as strategic actors aiming to maximise their benefits.

Answer 282

STV and AV

UK Politics Flashcards

(343 cards)