how do MPs perform their representative function? Flashcards
(14 cards)
what three areas do MPs representatives of
- their constituents/ voters
- their political party (unless they are an independent MP)
- special interest groups/ issues they personally feel strongly about
how does Geoffrey Clifton-Brown represent his constituents
- pro-farming/ agriculture
- fighting against farming inheritance tax
how does Geoffrey Clifton-Brown represent his party
- supports Rwanda scheme
- ULEZ
how does Geoffrey Clifton-Brown represent his own interests/ interest groups
- didn’t vote in assisted dying bill (Christian beliefs)
how does Geoffrey Clifton-Brown balance all his areas of representation
he mainly leans towards his party
what is the Burkean/ trustee theory of representation
In the trustee model, representatives are trusted by their constituents to use their own judgment and conscience when making decisions, even if those decisions go against the immediate wishes of the people they represent.
what are the strengths of the Burkean/ Trustee model
- Informed decisions – Representatives use their knowledge and experience to make smart choices.
- Less influenced by emotions – Helps avoid decisions driven by short-term public anger or hype.
- Long-term thinking – Encourages policies that benefit society over time, not just quick fixes.
- Moral responsibility – MPs act according to their conscience and take responsibility for their actions.
- Stable leadership – Promotes consistent and thoughtful governance, even in times of public pressure.
what are the weaknesses of the Burkean/ Trustee model
- Ignores public opinion – Representatives may go against what the people want.
- Risk of elitism – Assumes politicians know better than ordinary citizens.
- Lack of accountability – Harder for voters to hold MPs responsible if they act independently.
- Undemocratic feel – Reduces the direct influence of the public in decision-making.
- Potential for abuse – MPs might use “judgment” as an excuse to push personal or party agendas.
what is the Delegate theory of representation
The delegate theory of representation holds that elected representatives (delegates) should act strictly in accordance with the wishes of their constituents, regardless of their own personal opinions or judgments.
what are the strengths of the Delegate theory
- Reflects the people’s will – Representatives directly follow the views of their constituents.
- More democratic – Ensures the public has a strong voice in decision-making.
- Clear accountability – Voters can easily judge if their representative is doing their job.
- Prevents personal bias – Limits the chance of politicians pushing personal or party agendas.
- Encourages engagement – Can lead to more active participation from the public in politics.
what are the weaknesses of the Delegate theory
- Ignores representative’s expertise – Doesn’t allow MPs to use their own knowledge or judgment.
- Risk of poor decisions – Public opinion may be misinformed or based on emotion, not facts.
- Unrealistic expectations – Hard for representatives to constantly consult with all constituents.
- Can lead to inconsistency – Policies may shift often based on changing public moods.
- Reduces leadership – Representatives act more like messengers than leaders with vision.
what is the Mandate theory of representation
The Mandate Theory of Democracy is a political theory that suggests that when voters elect a government, they are giving it a mandate—or authorization—to carry out the policies and platform it campaigned on. In essence, the elected party or leader has the legitimacy to implement its agenda because it was endorsed by the majority through an electoral process.
what are the strengths of the Mandate theory
- Clear legitimacy – Winning a general election gives the government a clear right to implement its policies.
- Simplifies democracy – Voters know what they’re voting for based on party manifestos.
- Promotes accountability – Parties can be judged at the next election on whether they kept their promises.
- Encourages strong government – Helps parties govern with confidence and purpose.
- Supports party unity – MPs are expected to follow the party line, promoting discipline and consistency.
what are the weaknesses of the Mandate theory
- Assumes full support – Voters may not agree with every policy in the party’s manifesto.
- Oversimplifies voting – People often vote based on leadership, tradition, or single issues, not the full platform.
- Limits MP independence – Forces MPs to follow party policies, even if they disagree or it’s bad for their local area.
- Weak in coalition governments – Hard to claim a clear mandate when multiple parties share power.
- Can ignore minority views – Focuses on the majority, potentially side-lining smaller groups or concerns.
