Evaluate The View SC Are Most Effective Way For HOC To Hold Executive To Account Flashcards
Intro
Intro
Select committees are bi-partisan committees in Commons and Lords that primarily responsible for scrutinising gov. Since the 2010 Wright reforms, there has been a radical shift away from the executive in commons, and the House of Lords provides expertise that helps keep government to account. Select committees today are much more independent and are effective mechanisms in Parliament to hold the government to account.
1 the strongest and most convincing argument is that
P- since the Wright Reforms 2010, SC are an effective means of scrutiny due to bipartisan nature + independence.
Following recommendations from Reform of HOC Committee, majority o select committee’s chairs and members are now elected by their fellow MP. This is significant as ensures their independence, which allows them to conduct impartial work and scrutinise and hold to account work of gov.
A- Roughly 40% recommendations accepted by gov, which is a very strong number considering their recommendations are non-binding.
Home Affairs SC led inquiry into windrush scandal, when the then home secretary Amber Rudd denied that the home office had targets for illegal immigrants. But leaked emails suggested there were targets and Rudd was later aware of them, led to her resignation. This shows that SC expose gov inconsistencies + highlight systemic issues, thereby promoting transparency and the accountability of government. Thus they can be considered an effective means of scrutiny in parliament.
Agree
Point - effective at scrutiny of Gov as hold ministers accountable for actions and decisions.
Evidence - home affairs SC led inquiry into wind-rush scandal, when the then home secretary Amber Rudd denied that home office had targets for illegal immigrants. But leaked emails suggested that there were targets + Rudd was later aware of them, this led to her resignation.
L- therefore, help ensure Gov transparency + accountability showing effectiveness at scrutinising Gov actions as they exposed misleading statements
Counter
P- However, some argue, weakly, that SC do not have enough power. Cannot compel ministers to attend questioning.
E- 2021 Boris refused to appear before Liaison Committee many times and criticised for avoiding scrutiny by parliament committees.
A- cannot legally force them to attend.
L- limited ability to hold them accountable + weakens scrutiny.
Agree- detailed scrutiny on secondary legilsation.
E- SL scrutiny committee considers all SL + what proposals may cause concern. Where concern’s expressed, matter brought to attention + referred to HOC.
Provide disclipine on gov.
