Advantages and disadvantages of influences on law making1️⃣2️⃣

Question 1

Political Influence Advantage

P – Political influence allows for quick law-making that reflects the will of the people.

Answer 1

Dev/I/E:
Development: Political parties come into power with pre-set proposals, and if they hold a majority, they can pass laws efficiently.
Impact: This means the laws reflect the majority of the electorate’s views and can be implemented without delays.
Example: A government with a strong majority can pass its legislative agenda quickly.

Question 2

Political Influence disadvantage

P – Political influence leads to inconsistency and potential instability.

Answer 2

Dev/I/E:
Development: New governments may repeal or alter existing laws, or be forced into coalitions requiring compromise.
Impact: This can result in frequent changes to the law, which is costly and confusing.
Example: Coalition governments may dilute strong reforms due to conflicting agendas.

Question 3

Media / Public Opinion Advantage

P – Media and public opinion can trigger timely and democratic law changes

Answer 3

Dev/I/E:
Development: Free press can spotlight issues quickly, sometimes following tragedies or scandals, prompting Parliament to act.
Impact: This allows the public to have a voice outside of general elections and can focus attention on urgent social matters.
Example: ‘Sarah’s Law’ emerged after media campaigns following the murder of Sarah Payne.

Question 4

Media / Public Opinion disAdvantage

P – Media influence can lead to rushed, poorly considered laws.

Answer 4

Dev/I/E:
Development: Parliament may react hastily to media pressure without full debate or consultation.
Impact: This can result in ineffective or flawed legislation.
Example: The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 was a rushed reaction and later required amendment.

Question 5

Pressure Groups Advantage

P – Pressure groups raise awareness for underrepresented issues.

Answer 5

Dev/I/E:
Development: Many pressure groups have large memberships and expert knowledge, bringing attention to causes overlooked by Parliament.
Impact: This can result in important laws that address social or environmental concerns.
Example: Environmental pressure groups have pushed climate change onto the political agenda.

Question 6

Pressure Groups DisAdvantage

P – Pressure groups can be undemocratic or unrepresentative.

Answer 6

Dev/I/E:
Development: Some groups promote niche views not shared by the majority, and competing groups may cancel each other out.
Impact: Their influence may not reflect the will of the electorate.
Example: Conflicting pressure in the fox hunting debate between The League Against Cruel Sports and the Countryside Alliance.

Question 7

Lobbyists Advantage

P – Lobbying allows individuals and groups to engage directly with Parliament.

Answer 7

Dev/I/E:
Development: Anyone can approach MPs to discuss issues, encouraging participation in democracy.
Impact: This provides a way for citizens to influence debate and legislation.
Example: Lobbyists can raise questions in Parliament and initiate debates on specific issues.

Question 8

Lobbyists disAdvantage

P – Lobbying can lead to unfair influence from wealthy organisations.

Answer 8

Dev/I/E:
Development: Professional lobbyists may use financial incentives to gain access or priority.
Impact: This undermines fairness and gives undue influence to corporations or elites.
Example: Cases where MPs were paid to ask questions on behalf of companies.