Chapter 2: Parliament Flashcards
(6 cards)
Functions of Parliament?
- passing legislation: most important function of Parliament
- scrutiny of the executive
- providing ministers
Role of MPs (5 min)
1) taking part in debates on legislation and voting in divisions
2) speaking in general debates on government business
3)speaking in backbench debates when national or constituency interests can be aired
4) scrutinising proposed legislation at committee stage
5) campaigning lobbying and speaking on behalf of outside interest
E.g Mike Freer: long time champion of breast cancer screening and speaks in the interests of Israel, tried to improve inter community links within constituency
6) Listening to grievances of constituents
7) being part of a select committee
e.g Mhairi Black- Work and Pensions Select Committee, specialises in issues concerning welfare
More A01
Maria Eagle - instrumental in Fur Farming Act 2000 and campaigns for lgbt rights
Criticisms and defences of MPs
1) often unknown in constituencies
2) just party hacks who do as the whip say - untrue, numerous independent minded MPs
3)BB MPs powerless in domination of frontbenchers - no influence over legislation, fail to bring gov to account
However less true since 2010 , work of select committees respected and brings gov to account
Roles of Peers
1) non working peers - uninterested in political activity
A01 to support influence of backbenchers is rising?
BB business committee - allowed to choose debate topics for 35 days in each session - some in response to e petitions
Harvey’s Law 2015 - stemmed from a backbench debate
Backbench rebellions increase - 2010-15 35%, compared to 2005-10 28% : willing to go against gov measures
Urgent questions - 2000-09 1234, 2009- 13 3547
Allows MP to easier important matter requiring immediate answer from gov minister
Limits on influences of backbenchers (4)
Adjournment debate and 10 minute rule: whilst airing MPs concerns doesn’t really translate to any action
Public bill committees - opportunity for MPs to propose amendments however gov has majority on these - use it as a position of power to introduce them
Patronage and party loyalty - toeing the party line
