Illegal Methods Flashcards
(7 cards)
point
Another way that pressure groups attempt to influence the Government is through the use of illegal methods.
explain
Illegal methods such as blocking public access to places, threatening to be violent and vandalising public areas are frequently used because many groups feel like they aren’t listened to if they do things you’re allowed to but if they create chaos, the Government will be unable to ignore them. Also by going as far as glueing themselves to buildings and blocking busy roads gives a message to the public that there is a big issue here and could encourage others to support you in trying to influence the Government.
example
For example, 2 Extinction Rebellion members were found guilty of plotting to close Heathrow Airport in June and July of 2019. Despite them being unable to go ahead with their plans as they got arrested, many news stories were written about them, giving Extinction Rebellion more viewers and they got their name spread around.
rebuttal
However illegal methods can be largely ineffective as the Governments are unlikely to support groups that use illegal methods.
rebuttal explain
The Government won’t take any action on issues these groups are supporting as they won’t encourage other groups to use these illegal methods.
rebuttal example
For example, the Government cut ties with pressure group Greenpeace after they protested at the PM’s home. Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson commented saying, “We obviously don’t think that people who are accused of breaking the law should have a seat at the table in discussions with the Government.”
link
Therefore, using illegal methods such as blocking public access is ineffective as the Government is extremely unlikely to support groups who are breaking the law as it will send a message out that it is okay to break the law while trying to influence the Government and other groups will start taking part in these illegal activities.
