Democracy In The Uk Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is democracy
A type of of gov based upon the principle that all people are equal and collectively hold power and those elected are accountable to the people
Some features of democracy
•Regular, fair and open elections to public bodies
•A system where citizens can stand for elections
•The media can free my report upon the work of Gov
Liberal Democracy
•Certian freedoms of the individual are upheld and citizens are protected from excessive gov power e.g. UK, USA, EU countries
direct democracy
citizens take part in decisions making. Modern form of direct democracy is the use of referendums e.g. referendums on Scottish independence
Representative democracy
Citizens are elected to represent others in an assembly e.g. MPs of councillors
What is the traditional voting system used in UK elections?
First-past-the-post (FPTP)
FPTP means the person who tops the poll wins.
What does different voting systems produce?
Different results
The impact of the voting system can significantly affect the outcome of elections.
In the UK, is voting mandatory or voluntary?
Voluntary
This means that citizens have the choice to participate in elections.
What is often observed about voter turnout in local elections in the UK?
Very low
Low turnout can be a concern for the democratic process.
What is proportional representation?
A system where the number of seats won is based upon the percentage of votes gained
This system aims to create a more equitable representation in the legislature.
Should proportional representation be used instead of FPTP?
Considered as a question
This is a topic of debate regarding the fairness and effectiveness of electoral systems.
What is a key question to consider in elections regarding voter participation?
Should a voter be made to vote?
This raises ethical considerations about civic duty and individual choice.
What is voter turnout?
The percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election.
Voter turnout can vary significantly between different elections and countries.
What is the voting age in general elections in the UK?
18 years old.
In Scotland, the voting age is 16 for some elections.
What does FPTP stand for?
First Past The Post.
It is an electoral system where the candidate with the most votes wins.
Is voting compulsory in the UK?
No, it is voluntary.
In contrast, some countries require citizens to vote as a civic duty.
What did the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 establish?
A fixed term for future parliaments in the UK.
This Act was abolished in 2022.
How often must general elections be held in the UK after the abolition of the Fixed-term Parliaments Act?
Within a 5-year period decided by the prime minister or a vote of ‘no confidence’ in the government.
This allows for more flexibility in scheduling elections.
Does the UK have a formal written constitution?
No, it does not.
The UK has an unwritten constitution, allowing Parliament to act as it pleases.
What powers do the Supreme Court and judiciary have in relation to politicians?
They have powers to control decisions made by politicians and Parliament.
This helps maintain checks and balances within the government.
True or False: Voting via the internet is currently allowed in the UK to encourage turnout.
False.
There are ongoing debates about the feasibility and security of online voting.
Why do prime ministers prefer to control the timing of general elections?
To maximize their chances of winning.
Timing can significantly influence voter turnout and party advantage.
Fill in the blank: The UK has no formal _______.
written constitution.
What are some questions regarding the judiciary’s power?
- Should the Supreme Court and judiciary be given more powers?
- Should a formal written constitution be introduced?
These questions reflect ongoing debates about the balance of power in government.
