Democracy: Representatives Flashcards
1
Q
Introduction
A
- Function of parliament: Pass and amend laws and other functions.
- Functions connected to principles representing people in Scotland.
- MSPs influence decision-making by:
- First Minster’s Question Time (FMQT)
- Voting on Government Legislation
- Propose bills
- Taking part in committees
•However, influence limited.
2
Q
First Minister Question Time Pros
A
- Ordinary MSP’s opportunity to influence decision-making every Thursday in chamber FMQT.
- 30 minutes consists of opposition leads holding FM accountable - asking tough questions and grilling her on current issues.
- For example, after publication of Scottish survey on numeracy and literacy highlighted shocking drop in attainment - FM forced to accept results.
- Putting FM under intense pressure and shinning spotlight on the government’s failing - forced to make education top priority - appointed John Swinney new education secretary.
However,
3
Q
First Minister Question Time Cons
A
- Asking the FM questions ordinary MSPs not as effective.
- Questions asked are not unseen and have to be lodged before the next FMQT on the Monday of that week.
- By asking questions they get issues on political agenda the FM - plenty time to prepare consider supplementary questions.
- Ruth Davidson, leader of main opposition (Conservatives), dominates FMQT - only 10 names selected at random to ask questions - might not even be time for.
4
Q
Voting Pros
A
- When SNP want a law passed they need a majority MSPs.
- Gives individual MSP’s significant influence over decision-making - especially minority government.
- Between 2007-2011 Scottish Government had a SNP minority - difficult to pass legislation as MSP’s could vote against it.
- Meant SNP could not pass many bills they proposed due to minority.
- For example, 2010 MSPs voted against Scottish Government bill tot introduce minimum pricing alcohol.
5
Q
Voting Cons
A
- Only have power when it is a minority or coalition government.
- Between the years of 2011-2016 SNP had a majority of 65 seats out of 129.
- Ordinary MSPs from other parties may have some influence decision-making - voting on issues SNP have a minority in vote - form coalitions.
- MSPs have no influence regards to voting - unless minority/coalitions.
