democracy UK Flashcards
(129 cards)
1
Q
What is a democracy?
A
A system of government in which people vote their elected representatives into parliament.
2
Q
What is a key difference between a democracy and a dictatorship?
A
In a democracy, people discuss ideas and vote; in a dictatorship, one main leader holds power.
3
Q
Name a feature of a democracy.
A
- Respect for basic human rights.
- Multi-party political system.
- Democratic voting system.
- Respect for the rule of law.
- Citizen participation in politics.
- Free speech.
4
Q
What is the main voting system in the UK?
A
First Past the Post.
5
Q
What does ‘freedom of speech’ entail in a democratic society?
A
The right to express opinions without fear of retaliation or censorship.
6
Q
True or False: In a democracy, different opinions are not allowed.
A
False.
7
Q
Fill in the blank: A key feature of democracy is ________ participation.
A
citizen
8
Q
What rights do citizens have in a democracy?
A
- Vote in elections.
- Stand as a candidate.
- Join a pressure group.
- Join a political party.
9
Q
What responsibilities do voters have?
A
To inform themselves about candidates and their policies before voting.
10
Q
What is a devolved matter?
A
Powers given to the Scottish Parliament by the UK Parliament.
11
Q
Name an example of a devolved matter.
A
- Health.
- Education.
- Crime and Law Order.
12
Q
What are reserved matters?
A
Powers that remain with the UK Parliament affecting the whole UK.
13
Q
Name an example of a reserved matter.
A
- Foreign Affairs.
- Immigration.
- Defence.
14
Q
What role do councillors play in democracy?
A
Elected to local councils to make decisions affecting local areas.
15
Q
What is the role of Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs)?
A
Elected to make decisions affecting Scotland.
16
Q
How many MPs are there in the UK Parliament?
A
650.
17
Q
What is the significance of the Scotland Acts?
A
They established the devolved Scottish Parliament and further powers.
18
Q
What is the right to protest?
A
The right to take part in marches and demonstrations to influence decision-making.
19
Q
True or False: Citizens have the right to protest without informing the police.
A
False.
20
Q
What is a pressure group?
A
An organization that seeks to influence political decisions.
21
Q
What is an example of a pressure group in the UK?
A
CND (Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament).
22
Q
What is the responsibility of candidates during elections?
A
To campaign responsibly and tell the truth.
23
Q
Fill in the blank: The public can support a political party by paying a ________ fee.
A
membership
24
Q
What does the term ‘multi-party political system’ imply?
A
Multiple parties exist and compete for power.
25
What does 'respect for the rule of law' mean?
The legal system oversees the process and decisions.
26
What is the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in relation to freedom of speech?
It recognizes freedom of speech as a human right.
27
What was a key finding from a YouGov survey regarding freedom of speech in the UK?
58% of Britons feel they cannot freely express their opinions.
28
What did Suella Braverman state regarding homelessness?
She claimed it is a 'lifestyle choice'.
29
What did the Scottish Parliament do regarding smacking children?
Passed a law banning smacking.
30
What is the date for the next UK General Election mentioned?
4th July 2024.
31
What is a significant action taken by the UK Government in response to foreign affairs?
Issuing sanctions against hostile countries.
32
What is the responsibility of the UK Parliament regarding immigration?
The UK Parliament has the power to make decisions about who enters the country.
33
Who decides who is allowed visas and passports to visit the UK?
The Home Office decides who is allowed visas and passports to visit the UK.
34
What was the Rwanda Bill proposed by the former Conservative government in 2022?
The Rwanda Bill was an immigration policy to relocate asylum seekers arriving on small boats to Rwanda.
35
What is the purpose of the 'Homes for Ukraine' scheme introduced in March 2022?
The scheme allows individuals, charities, community groups, and businesses in the UK to bring Ukrainians to safety.
36
What is the basic annual salary of a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons as of April 2023?
The basic annual salary of an MP is £86,584.
37
What is the First Past the Post voting system?
The British electoral system that elects MPs to the House of Commons is known as First Past the Post.
38
How are MPs elected in the House of Commons?
Voters mark an X next to their preferred candidate, and the candidate with the most votes becomes the MP.
39
What is a majority government in the context of UK General Elections?
A majority government occurs when the winning party gets more than half of all MPs elected (over 326 seats).
40
What is one advantage of the First Past the Post voting system?
It is simple to understand.
41
What is a disadvantage of the First Past the Post voting system?
Most people do not get who they voted for.
42
What is tactical voting?
Tactical voting occurs when voters choose to vote for a candidate they think can win over their preferred candidate.
43
What percentage of the UK population is female, and what percentage of MPs in the House of Commons are women?
51% of the UK population is female; women make up 41% of MPs in the House of Commons.
44
What are some reasons for the underrepresentation of women in UK politics?
* Location of Parliament
* Male dominated culture
* Sexist views about women's roles
45
What percentage of the UK population is from a minority ethnic background, and what percentage of MPs are from an ethnic minority?
About 18% of the UK population is from a minority ethnic background; 14% of MPs are from an ethnic minority.
46
What is one reason ethnic minorities are underrepresented in UK politics?
Racial discrimination.
47
Fill in the blank: The power to allow military action against another country is known as _______.
Defence
48
Who is the current Secretary of State for Defence?
John Healey MP.
49
What is the role of MPs in their constituencies?
MPs represent their constituency and address issues of concern for their constituents.
50
True or False: The winning candidate in a constituency must receive more than 50% of the vote.
False
51
What is the role of the Foreign Office?
To manage foreign affairs and sanctions against hostile countries.
52
What was the purpose of the sanctions imposed by the Foreign Secretary on Russia in February 2024?
To stop Russia from acting aggressively towards Ukraine.
53
What is the significance of the 2011 referendum regarding the voting system?
68% of the public voted to keep the First Past the Post system.
54
What is the average population size of a constituency in the UK?
Approximately 69,000 people.
55
What is one way MPs promote their work to their constituency?
Using local media, social media, and newsletters.
56
What is the Electoral Reform Society's view on the 2024 General Election?
There was a significant discrepancy between how people voted and the MPs elected.
57
What is one example of discrimination faced by ethnic minority MPs?
Experiencing racist abuse online.
58
What is one reason ethnic minorities are underrepresented in UK politics?
Racial discrimination
## Footnote
Ethnic minority candidates are less likely to be elected than white candidates, discouraging many from standing.
59
What percentage of all MPs are ethnic minorities?
14%
## Footnote
This statistic highlights the underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in UK politics.
60
What impact does racist abuse have on ethnic minority candidates?
It discourages them from standing as candidates
## Footnote
Examples include MPs like Dianne Abbot who have experienced racial abuse.
61
What percentage of all MPs have been privately educated as of 2024?
23%
## Footnote
This contrasts with only 7% of the general population being privately educated.
62
Why are ethnic minority children less likely to attend private school in the UK?
Economic disparities
## Footnote
Black, Asian, and other ethnic minority backgrounds are more likely to earn less and live in poverty.
63
What is the House of Lords?
The second chamber of the UK Parliament
## Footnote
It is not as powerful as the House of Commons and its members are not elected.
64
What are the three main roles of the House of Lords?
* Making laws
* Scrutinising the government
* Debating policy
## Footnote
Each role contributes to the legislative process in the UK.
65
What happens to a Bill after it is introduced in the House of Commons?
It goes through a process and is sent to the House of Lords for further examination
## Footnote
This ensures both chambers contribute to law-making.
66
What is the purpose of scrutiny in the House of Lords?
To closely examine government actions and decisions
## Footnote
Questions can be asked both orally and in writing.
67
How many written and oral questions were asked in the House of Lords during the 2022-23 session?
10,809 written questions and 7,641 oral questions
## Footnote
This reflects the active role of the Lords in scrutinising the government.
68
What are the five permanent committees in the House of Lords?
* Europe
* Science
* Economy
* Communication
* Constitution
## Footnote
These committees allow for specialized discussions on various policy areas.
69
How can one become a peer in the House of Lords?
* Inherit the title as a hereditary peer
* Bishops in the Church of England automatically get a seat
* Nominated by the Prime Minister
* Recommended by the Appointments Commission
## Footnote
These are the primary pathways to membership in the House of Lords.
70
What is a criticism of the House of Lords related to cost?
Members receive up to £323 per day for attending Parliament
## Footnote
Critics argue this is unnecessary given many members' wealth.
71
What is the current number of members in the House of Lords as of 2023?
781 members
## Footnote
Each member is entitled to a daily allowance, contributing to high potential costs.
72
What is the main role of hereditary peers in the House of Lords?
To scrutinise proposed legislation
## Footnote
Their expertise is important, but can be undermined by their hereditary status.
73
What is the gender representation in the House of Lords as of 2023?
28% are women
## Footnote
This statistic raises concerns about the representation of the public.
74
What is the role of the Prime Minister in the UK government?
The head of the UK Government
## Footnote
The PM is responsible for deciding key government policies.
75
What is Prime Minister's Question Time (PMQT)?
A weekly event where MPs ask questions to the Prime Minister
## Footnote
It usually takes place on Wednesdays.
76
What power does the Prime Minister have regarding the Cabinet?
The PM can hire and fire Cabinet members
## Footnote
This grants significant influence over government decisions.
77
What is one limitation of the Prime Minister's power to choose government policy?
It is limited by the political party manifesto
## Footnote
This document outlines commitments made before elections.
78
What is one reason people may choose not to vote?
Voter apathy
## Footnote
Lack of interest in politics can lead to low voter turnout.
79
What is a 'safe seat' in the context of voting?
A parliamentary constituency where one party has a strong majority
## Footnote
Voters in these areas may feel their votes are wasted.
80
What is one way people can participate in politics?
Voting in elections
## Footnote
Most people over the age of 18 can participate in various elections.
81
What percentage of the vote did Labour secure in Liverpool Walton during the last general election?
Almost 75%
82
What is one way people participate in politics?
Voting
83
What is the minimum age to participate in General Elections in the UK?
18 years
84
What was the voter turnout percentage in the last General Election in the UK?
60%
85
What is the requirement for joining a political party in the UK?
Pay a membership fee
86
What is a pressure group?
A group of people who join together to put pressure on the government to make changes to the law
87
Name one method used by pressure groups to influence the government.
Demonstrations
88
Give an example of an active pressure group campaigning against Nuclear Weapons.
CND
89
What are cause pressure groups?
Pressure groups that aim to influence government over one particular issue
90
What are sectional pressure groups?
Pressure groups that aim to influence the government on behalf of a group of people
91
Give an example of a cause pressure group.
Greenpeace
92
Give an example of a sectional pressure group.
British Medical Association (BMA)
93
Why do some people join pressure groups?
To influence decision making between elections
94
Fill in the blank: Pressure groups allow you to have your say ______.
anytime
95
What is one method used by pressure groups to promote their cause?
Publicity stunts
96
What must pressure groups do to arrange public protests?
Give notice to the relevant authorities
97
What is one reason why some pressure groups are successful?
Support from the public and the media
98
What was the #MakeTheUTurn campaign about?
Convincing the government to provide free school meals during summer holidays
99
Why was the #MakeTheUTurn campaign successful?
Strong public and media support
100
What did the BMA successfully pressure the UK Government to do regarding vaping?
Introduce a bill to ban disposable vapes
101
What is one reason why pressure groups may be unsuccessful?
They sometimes use illegal methods
102
What is another reason why pressure groups may be unsuccessful?
The government has a large majority in Parliament
103
What are the three types of media discussed?
Broadcast media, Print media, Social media
104
What must broadcasters do by law regarding political coverage?
Be neutral
105
Why are newspapers allowed to take sides in their reporting?
They don't have to be balanced
106
What is a significant influence of social media on politics?
Allows direct outreach to voters
107
What role does the media play in informing the public?
Keeps the public up to date with current affairs
108
What is one example of the media holding the government to account?
Investigating the Grenfell Tower tragedy
109
What were leaders' debates used for during elections?
To influence the electorate
110
What is one limitation of debates influencing long-term voting behavior?
Voters may revert to previous plans on election day
111
What happened during the Grenfell Tower fire?
A fire occurred, resulting in 72 deaths and many injuries
112
What was a significant cause of the Grenfell Tower fire's rapid spread?
Cladding material used on the building
113
What floor did the blaze start on?
The blaze started on the fourth floor
## Footnote
This was a significant detail in understanding how the fire spread.
114
How long did it take to get the fire under control?
About 24 hours
## Footnote
This highlights the severity and scale of the disaster.
115
What was the impact of the fire on those who escaped?
All those who managed to escape were made homeless
## Footnote
The building was completely destroyed.
116
What material is believed to have contributed to the fire's rapid spread?
'Cladding' used on the outside of the building
## Footnote
Some experts suggest that this material played a role in how quickly the fire spread.
117
What role does social media play in reaching voters?
Social media is the most used type of media in the UK
## Footnote
Political parties want to utilize it to reach as many voters as possible.
118
What percentage of the UK population uses social media?
57 million people
## Footnote
This figure underscores the significance of social media in political campaigns.
119
How do political parties target specific voters on social media?
By running tailored ads based on user data
## Footnote
This includes information such as age, gender, and interests.
120
True or False: Targeted ads on social media have been shown to have long-term influence.
False
## Footnote
Most people ignore the ads, and not everyone uses social media.
121
What was a significant social media campaign related to environmental issues?
Campaign against single-use plastic
## Footnote
The campaign was influenced by the BBC documentary Blue Planet.
122
What action did the UK government take in response to the plastic campaign?
Banned the use of single-use plastic straws in 2020
## Footnote
This was a direct response to public pressure from social media campaigns.
123
What is one reason political parties use broadcast media during campaigns?
To reach a wider audience
## Footnote
People watch an average of 24 hours of television per week.
124
How did the audience respond to the first televised leaders' debate in the 2019 General Election?
A third of the British television audience tuned in
## Footnote
This indicates the effectiveness of broadcast media in engaging voters.
125
What is canvassing in the context of political campaigning?
Knocking on doors to explain policies and convince voters
## Footnote
It helps gauge the party's potential success in the election.
126
What was a strategy used by the Conservative Party in Scotland during the election?
Featuring popular politicians in leaflets instead of the leader
## Footnote
This was done to attract votes by leveraging familiar faces.
127
Fill in the blank: Political parties use ________ media to reach younger audiences.
Social
## Footnote
18-24 year olds engage more with social media platforms.
128
What was the 2024 election referred to as?
'The first TikTok election'
## Footnote
This highlights the importance of social media in modern political campaigns.
129
What method do political parties use to deliver their policies directly to voters?
Posting leaflets
## Footnote
This provides information on candidates and their plans.
