P1 Politics UK A Level

Question 1

Explain and analyse three disadvantages of direct democracy. (9 marks)

Answer 1

1. Time consuming (individuals would have to vote on every single piece of legislation like dangerous dogs act) → average people are busy with work and don’t have time to properly research legislation
2. Decreased Political participation (as elections are more often it will mean less and people may not be bothered to vote which could decrease participation) → decreases political legitimacy
3. Lack of Political expertise (individuals may not lack the same education level as the current political figures Rachel Reeves went to Oxford) → Educated individuals are more likely to make better decisions on running a nation.

Question 2

Explain and analyse three advantages of direct democracy. (9 marks)

Answer 2

1. Increases Political Participation (more people will be voting) → increases political legitimacy
2. Fairer representation of the UK’s view ( Brexit parliament voted to stay but public voted to leave) → improves political representation in the UK
3. Encourages political education (citizens will have to research before voting e.g. FPTP reform referendum) → more educated people vote more liberally so it shifts the population to the left

Question 3

Explain and analyse three possible ways for improving democracy in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 3

1. House of Lords Reform (one of the only hereditary based chamber in the world) → increases democratic legitimacy in the UK
2. Increased use of referendums (Brexit) → increases political participation
3. Change to the voting system (FPTP ensures a bipartisan system) → discourages a wide range of political views from other parties like the lib dems and reform.

Question 4

Explain and analyse three ways in which suffrage has changed since 1832. (9 marks)

Answer 4

1. All men voting regardless of social class(1867 Representation of the People Act) → represents the views of the working class individuals
2. All women achieving suffrage (1928 Representation of the People Act) → allows women to be politically represented
3. Voting age lowered to 18 (1969 Representation of the People Act)

Question 5

Explain and analyse three methods of participating in politics. (9 marks)

Answer 5

1. Elections (2024 election had around 60% turnout) → elects the representative government which passes legislation.
2. Referendums (Brexit) → influence parliament’s legislation but not legally binding as parliament is always sovereign.
3. Pressure Groups (CBI) → influence policy and donate to campaigns

Question 6

Explain and analyse three advantages of First-Past-The-Post. (9 marks)

Answer 6

1. Easy to understand (instead of creating a list voters only pick one candidate) → improves political participation
2. Small extremist parties are kept out of government (British National Party) → stops extremist from having influence in the UK
3. By supporting bipartisanship it forces parties to have a broad appeal (labour party has multiple wings) → Increases political representation

Question 7

Explain and analyse three disadvantages of First-Past-The-Post. (9 marks)

Answer 7

1. Amplifies winning votes (2024 labor majority seats but less than 50% of the vote) →
2. The winning party doesn’t always get the most votes (1974 election labor won without popular vote) → FPTP is poor at showing
3. Stops third party representation (typically labor or conservative win the election) → increases diverse representation of political views

Question 8

Explain and analyse three advantages of proportional electoral systems. (9 marks)

Answer 8

1. They better represent the people view ( labor winning majority of the seats while winning 33.9% of the popular vote) → shows that more people would rather another party win than the winning party
2. They allow third parties to succeed (third parties like the UK have had little success due to FPTP) → stops the parliament from representing a broad range of political views
3. They stop wasted votes (List PR can give votes to third parties which can stop votes from being wasted) → can influence the outcome of the election

Question 9

Explain and analyse the advantages of three different electoral systems used in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 9

1.List PR is proportional (used in European parliamentary elections Brexit party won 39% of the vote and 40% of the popular vote) → Fairly represents the political view of the UK
2. FPTP produces a strong government amplifies the vote of the public (labor winning 30% of the popular vote but majority of the seats in parliament) → avoids political unrest
3. AMS is more proportional (used in Scottish Assembly elections) → gives voter more choice over candidates

Question 10

Explain and analyse three circumstances for the use of referendums in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 10

1. Voting system ( voted against abolishing FPTP) → influence the outcome of future elections
2. Brexit (voted for Brexit) → influenced the parliament’s decision to leave the EU
3. Devolution (voted for Scotland to remain in the UK) → influenced the political makeup of the UK

Question 11

Explain and analyse three reasons why the UK is in a participation crisis(9 marks)

Answer 11

1. Turnout has fallen (60% in 2024 lowest since 2021) → lower turnout makes elections less democratically legitimate
2. Partisan dealignment (party membership for conservatives has fallen from 2.5 million in the 1950’s to 124,000 in 2018) → people affiliate less with a particular party
3. People don’t feel politically represented (having only two main parties makes it hard for more niche political views to be heard) → it results in increased representation in the UK

Question 12

Explain and analyse three factors that affect voting behaviour in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 12

1. Voter Age (younger voters liberal older voters conservative) → shows changing trends with
2. Social class (poor more likely to vote labor) → shows how reliance different parties aims
3. Gender (women more likely to vote liberal men conservative) → Shows how different genders view politics

Question 13

Explain and analyse three ways in which the media have affected the outcome of UK general elections. (9 marks)

Answer 13

1. 1983 election (Do you really want this old man running Britain Michael Foot - The Sun) → makes the leader seem weak and help the conservatives win
2. 1997 election (new labor with Tony Blair - The Sun) → established a new strain of the labor party
3. 2019 (get Brexit done) → made voter vote based on one specific policy instead of usual voting mannerisms.

Question 14

Explain and analyse three functions of political parties. (9 marks)

Answer 14

1. Give Clear choice to the people (labor and conservative) → shows the difference between the left and the right
2. Provide a clean transition of power (labor from conservatives in 2024) → shows parties working together to provide a smooth transition of power
3. Focus on key issues (Green party with climate change) → shows care for policy and shows parties acting as policy makers

Question 15

Explain and analyse the role played by minor parties in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 15

1. Help build legislation (reform’s stance on immigration)
2. Influence election outcomes
3. Represent radical political views ( British National Party with far right political views) → allows even some of the more radical views to be represented in politics

Question 15

Explain and analyse the arguments in favour of the UK now having a multiparty system. (9 marks)

Answer 15

1. Increased Political representation (gives even the most radical views like the British National Party a platform to express their views)
2. Increased checks and balances on the government (likely that
3. Focus on key issues (Green party with climate change) → shows care for policy and shows parties acting as policy makers

Question 16

Explain and analyse the ways political parties establish policy (9 marks)

Answer 16

1. Conservatives use a Top down Process (leaders team decides what goes in the manifesto) → Shows the power party leaders have in dictating policy
2. Labor uses the national Policy Forum (representatives from the party agree on the direction of policy which is voted in at the party conference) → Shows how party members have an influence on the parties manifesto
3. Lib Dems use the Federal Policy Committee ( a mix of MPs and party members to develop policy to be held at the conference) → shows how party members and MPs influence the party’s legislation.

Question 17

Explain and analyse the ways political parties are funded (9 marks)

Answer 17

1. Membership fee’s (conservative party has over 124,000 members) → party membership has declined since the 1980s shows how funding from membership fees is declining in the 21st century
2. Large donations from wealthy donors (conservatives received more than 6 million pounds from companies for the 2019 election) → shows how large firms influence the outcome of elections
3. Trade Unions (labor received 93% of their funding from trade unions in the 2019 election) → shows how the party values the opinions and support of workers

Question 18

Explain and analyse three factions within the Conservative party (9 marks)

Answer 18

1. Thatcherite conservatives (private property ownership) → Shows how owning private property can boost the economy.
2. Socially conservatives (MPs voting against the abortion act) → shows how
3. One nation conservatives (sunak’s government with a large welfare state) → shows the key conservative concepts of paternalism and noblesse oblige.

Question 19

Explain and analyse three policies of the Labour Party. (9 marks)

Answer 19

1. High tax on businesses (Corbyn) → shows the labor party returning to the old labor way
2. Large welfare state (Stamer) → shows the parties roots and care for the working class
3. Funding state services (Blair) → shows the party’s modern revolution of equality of opportunity.

Question 20

Explain and analyse three Thatcherite/Conservative party policies. (9 marks)

Answer 20

1. Privatisation of key industries (privatised the rail network) → leads to more efficiently run services which can increase economic growth in the UK.
2. Business friendly policies (work with the CBI to create policy) → promotes economic growth which is the parties main goal
3. Paternalism (sunak’s ONC view of having a large welfare state) → shows the ONC value of paternalism

Question 21

Explain and analyse three factions of the Labour Party. (9 marks)

Answer 21

1. Third way socialist( new labor -Tony Blair ) → emphasizes the equality of opportunity over equality of outcome which was revolutionary at the time.
2. Evolutionary socialist (Starmer) → high taxes and large welfare to help the working class
3. Old labor ( Corbyn, high tax on business to fund for the welfare ) → shows the return to the old labor style and the historical roots of the party

Question 22

Explain and analyse three methods used by pressure groups to influence policy. (9 marks)

Answer 22

1.Direct protest (Thatcher’s Poll tax and BLM) → shows the violent methods of applying pressure on the government
2.Funding Political Parties (CBI donate heavily to the conservative party) → influenced the outcome of an election
3. Utilizing expertise (British Medical association provided their expertise during covid) → expertise can be used to create effective policy for government

Question 23

Explain and analyse three ways in which pressure groups detract from democracy in the UK. (9 marks)

Answer 23

1. Unequal influence (wealthy pressure groups like the CBI have increased influence) → making it hard for smaller pressure groups to gain influence
2. Hard to get insider status (insiders like the BMA can easily influence policy) → outsiders will have to work hard to get insider status
3. Promote violence (anti poll tax federation promoted protest within the UK) → can endanger the lives of citizens

Question 24

Explain and analyse three factors that affect pressure group success. (9 marks)

Answer 24

1. Wealth (CBI is a wealthy pressure group that donates to the conservative party) → influences the outcome of elections 2. Insider status (BMA is an insider pressure group that influenced policy during the covid 19 pandemic) → shows how insider pressure groups have an easier time influencing policy 3. Party Affiliation (CBI with conservatives and teachers union with labor) → shows how different political parties favour different pressure groups and influence can change depending on the party in power.

Question 25

Explain and analyse three ways in which pressure groups enhance the democratic process. (9 marks)

Answer 25

1. Increase political participation (pressure groups allow people to participate in politics while elections have already taken place e.g teachers union) → makes the policy more democratically legitimate 2. Raise key issues and policies (BMA helping with covid policies) → improve the quality of policies and ensure that legislation is effective 3. Arguments for free speech

Question 26

Analyse and explain the role of three institutions of the EU (9 marks)

Answer 26

European Parliament Approves legislation (705 Members of the European parliament Proportional representation based on country size) --> which recognizes that some countries will have disproportionate influence. Court of Justice (Judiciary of the EU Interprets the law Rules against EU nations that infringe the law) -->Ensures that the EU acts appropriately and in accordance with it’s own laws --> Judges appointed by national governments, judicial independence as their salary comes from a collective fund so they are not incentivised to be politicised. European Commission Initiates EU legislation Drafts EU budget Represents EU in international negotiations Supranational body with 27 commissioners. This ensures that all EU countries have a voice in the legislation that is created

Question 26

3 ways EU achieved aims (9 marks)

Answer 26

1. Protecting individual rights and freedoms EX: The principle of freedom of movement allows citizens to move freely across borders SIG: allows them to seek higher paid jobs and opportunities, standardizing fair labour, and studying abroad 2.economic growth EX: previously impoverished nations in eastern europe have grown economically. The single market GDP increase was 15% SIG: though the overall gdp have increased, the economies of the states are highly disparate 3. peace and stability EX: two soviet satellite states Croatia and Slovenia entered the EU after civil war SIG:smooth transition to democracy after USSR collapse and avoided instability

Question 27

3 ways EU did not achieve aims (9 marks)

Answer 27

1. did not fully protect Individual rights and freedoms EX: the principle of freedom of movement allows citizens to move freely across boarders SIG: caused tensions in the UK which led to Brexit as eu and uk relations deteriorated 2: Failed to have efficient immigration policy EX: 2015 , 1,8 million immigrants applied for asylum SIG: lack of political coordination caused an unequal distribution of immigrant movement in each state. 3: unequal wealth distribution EX: GDP of Germany is x5 of bulgaria SIG: though EU policies do take a part in the unfair distribution , the states’ domestics government policies on subjects like tax plays a bigger role

Question 28

3 treaties that have affected the work of the EU since 1985. (9 marks)

Answer 28

1: single european act 1985 EX: it created single eu market that was voted for by a qualified majority SIG: this single market removed barriers to the free movement of goods between EU countries. 2: maastricht treaty 1991 EX: increase interest in foreign and security policy and created EU SIG: it allowed a greater cooperation between the EU states , and allowed eu citizens to work in other states with full residence 3: Amsterdam treaty 1997 EX: 'an area of freedom, security and justice' where an economic and monetary union established SIG: it was an enlargement of the policies from the maastricht treaty 1991 which enhances EU citizenship rights such as the right to move freely

Question 29

1. Explain and analyse three sources of the UK Constitution. (9 marks)

Answer 29

Point: Statute law (e.g., Human Rights Act 1998). Significance: This forms arguably the most important source of the British constitution. The Human Rights Act 1998, for instance, incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) into British law, demonstrating the power of statute law to shape the constitution. Point: Conventions (e.g., picking cabinet members from the HOC instead of the HOL). Significance: Not legally binding but followed by everyone Point: Authoritative works and opinions (e.g., Erskine May). Significance: Works like Erskine May's Parliamentary Practice provide authoritative interpretations of constitutional conventions and procedures, helping to prevent constitutional deadlocks and ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament.

Question 30

2. Explain and analyse three features of the UK Constitution. (9 marks)

Answer 30

Point: Uncodified nature. Significance: The UK constitution isn't contained in a single document, unlike many other countries. This flexibility allows for adaptation but also creates potential for ambiguity and inconsistency. (The example provided in the original text was incomplete.) Point: Unitary state (with devolution). Significance: Power is traditionally centralized in Westminster Parliament. However, the creation of devolved assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (contrasting with the US federal system) has significantly altered the balance of power, creating a more complex, quasi-federal system. Point: Parliamentary sovereignty. Significance: Parliament holds supreme legislative power. The UK's membership in the European Union (via the European Communities Act 1972), and subsequent withdrawal (Brexit), illustrates this principle. Parliament's decision to join and later leave the EU demonstrates its ultimate authority over constitutional matters.

Question 31

3. Explain and analyse three milestones in the development of the British Constitution pre-1997. (9 marks)

Answer 31

Point: Magna Carta (1215). Significance: This represented an early attempt to limit the absolute power of the monarch and establish the rule of law. The clause guaranteeing justice and a fair trial for "free men" is a key example, establishing a principle that remains central to the UK's judicial system. Point: Bill of Rights (1689). Significance: This established the dominance of Parliament over the monarchy. Key provisions included frequent parliaments, free elections, freedom of speech within Parliament, and the principle of "no taxation without representation," fundamentally shifting the balance of power. Point: European Communities Act 1972. Significance: This act enabled the UK's accession to the European Economic Community (EEC), marking a significant constitutional development. Despite its brevity (12 clauses), the act generated extensive debate (300 hours in the Commons), highlighting its importance and laying the groundwork for the UK's complex relationship with Europe.

Question 32

4. Explain and analyse 3 key historical documents that have developed rights in the UK. (This is largely a repeat of question 3, focusing on rights development.) (9 marks)

Answer 32

Point: Magna Carta (1215). Significance: While not explicitly a human rights document, it provided the foundation for future rights protections, influencing modern treaties like the ECHR. The right to trial for "free men" is a key example. Point: Bill of Rights (1689). Significance: This marked a crucial step towards a parliamentary state, establishing principles like free elections, frequent parliamentary sessions, and parliamentary privilege, thereby establishing parliamentary sovereignty and the parliamentary state. Point: Parliament Acts (1911 & 1949). Significance: These acts significantly curtailed the power of the House of Lords to delay legislation, enhancing the democratic accountability of the House of Commons.

Question 33

5. Explain and analyse three pieces of legislation that have helped improve rights in the UK.

Answer 33

Point: Human Rights Act 1998. Significance: This brought the UK under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Human Rights, allowing declarations of incompatibility for laws violating ECHR principles. Its near-codification of individual rights makes its repeal politically difficult. Point: Freedom of Information Act 2000. Significance: This aimed to increase access to information held by public bodies. While a landmark improvement, only about 40% of public bodies fully complied, highlighting implementation challenges. Point: Constitutional Reform Act 2005. Significance: This removed the Law Lords, establishing the Supreme Court and the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), an independent body for appointing judges. This significantly increased the democratic accountability of Parliament by preventing conflicts of interest.

Question 34

Explain and analyse three arguments in favour of codifying the constitution.

Answer 34

Point: Increased coherence. Significance: Codification would address the piecemeal nature of the current constitution (e.g., the Cabinet Manual), preventing ambiguity exploited as in Boris Johnson's attempted prorogation of Parliament. Point: Better rights protection. Significance: Parliamentary sovereignty allows even quasi-higher law (like the Human Rights Act 1998) to be repealed. Codification would shift sovereignty to the constitution, making fundamental rights harder to alter. Point: Reduced concentration of power in the executive. Significance: Parliamentary sovereignty allows the Prime Minister to significantly alter the constitution at will. Codification would provide better scrutiny, albeit at the cost of increased power for unelected courts.

Question 35

11. Explain and analyse three constitutional reforms since 1997.

Answer 35

Point: Constitutional Reform Act 2005 (Abolition of Law Lords and introduction of the JAC). Significance: This modernized the British political system, removing power from unelected, hereditary lords. Point: Constitutional Reform Act 2005 (Abolition of the Lord Chancellor's role). Significance: Separating the Lord Chancellor's powers into distinct roles (like the Lord Speaker) ensured objectivity in parliamentary proceedings, reducing potential political bias. Point: Human Rights Act 1998. Significance: This incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights into British law, requiring all new statutes to be compatible with it, transforming the uncodified constitution into a quasi-codified one.

Question 36

Explain and analyse the impact of the Constitutional Reform Act.

Answer 36

Point: Modernisation (removal of Law Lords). Significance: Removed an anachronistic element, allowing Parliament to remain relevant. Point: Democratisation (introduction of the JAC). Significance: The JAC arguably increased public access to judicial appointments compared to the previous system of patronage and elitism. Point: Rights (establishment of the Supreme Court). Significance: The Supreme Court enables more efficient handling of conflicts over individual and collective rights, demonstrating the constitution's capacity to evolve.

Question 37

Explain and analyse the impact of the Human Rights Act.

Answer 37

Point: Modernisation (incorporation of ECHR). Significance: Arguably entrenched individual rights in quasi-higher law, representing a significant development in modern rights protection. Point: Democratisation (increased public awareness). Significance: The HRA provided greater understanding of citizens' rights, offering reassurance during Brexit concerns about the impact on rights. Point: Rights (protection via case law, e.g., Connors v UK). Significance: The HRA protects citizens' rights in accordance with the ECHR, unaffected by Brexit.

Question 38

14. Explain and analyse the impact of the Freedom of Information Act.

Answer 38

Point: Modernisation (adapting to cyber threats). Significance: Demonstrates the constitution's ability to update its protection of citizens' rights in the face of emerging threats like cyberterrorism. Point: Democratisation (direct access to information). Significance: Allowed citizens to directly request information and safeguard their personal data, actively participating in rights protection. Point: Rights (high response rate from public bodies). Significance: The high response rate (86%) demonstrates government effectiveness in safeguarding citizens' rights, even in technologically advanced sectors.

Question 39

15. Explain and analyse the impact of devolution.

Answer 39

Point: Modernisation (quasi-federal system). Significance: Introduced greater regional autonomy (except in England) over issues like healthcare, demonstrating the constitution's adaptability. Point: Democratisation (regional lawmaking). Significance: Allowed regions (like Scotland's unique smoking laws) to create legislation directly affecting their citizens, rather than relying on potentially out-of-touch Westminster decisions. Point: Rights (protection via regional legislation, e.g., Welsh Environment Act 2016). Significance: Devolution, despite drawbacks like the West Lothian Question, has protected the rights of a significant portion of the UK population.

Question 40

16. Explain and analyse three areas where individual rights and collective rights conflict in the UK.

Answer 40

Point: Female circumcision. Significance: Conflict between the individual right to practice religious traditions and the collective right to protection from harm. Point: Ashers Baking Company Limited case. Significance: Conflict between individual freedom of expression/religion and the collective right to non-discrimination. Point: Shamina Begum case. Significance: Conflict between the collective right to national security and the individual right to return to one's country.

Question 41

1. Explain and analyse three key roles of the core executive.

Answer 41

Point: Policy-making. Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Boris Johnson implemented various policies to manage the public health crisis. Significance: The executive sets political priorities and decides policy, often in Cabinet meetings or committees. This demonstrates the executive's crucial role in shaping the nation's direction. Point: Passing legislation. Example: While Parliament passes all laws, major acts are initially discussed and approved by the Cabinet before parliamentary debate and final decision. Brexit, though atypical and problematic, illustrates this process. Significance: The Prime Minister's typical majority usually ensures smooth passage of legislation, highlighting the executive's dominance in the legislative process. Point: Acting as the nation's first responder. Example: In national emergencies (war, terrorism, COVID-19), the executive rapidly implements measures. Significance: Such situations demand swift inter-departmental cooperation, showcasing the executive's capacity for decisive action in crises.

Question 42

2. Explain and analyse three prerogative powers of the Executive.

Answer 42

Point: Declaring war and deploying armed forces. Example: In the 1982 Falklands War, Margaret Thatcher authorized military action without prior parliamentary approval. Significance: Though legally not required, the 2003 Iraq War established a convention of seeking parliamentary approval for overseas military actions, emphasizing parliamentary sovereignty in major decisions. Point: Making and ratifying treaties. Example: Theresa May triggered Article 50 in 2017, initiating Brexit, a process later confirmed by the Supreme Court to require parliamentary authorization. Significance: This illustrates the royal prerogative, but its limits are apparent when treaties require domestic law changes, necessitating parliamentary legislation. Point: Appointing and dismissing ministers. Example: In 2019, Boris Johnson dismissed 21 Conservative MPs for opposing Brexit. Significance: This power strengthens the Prime Minister's control over the government, though it can also lead to internal conflict and instability.

Question 43

3. Explain and analyse three factors that affect policy-making.

Answer 43

Point: The party whipping system. Example: Strong party loyalty and the Prime Minister's typical majority allow for easy passage of desired legislation. Significance: This creates a concentration of power in the executive due to parliamentary sovereignty, potentially limiting checks and balances. Point: Issues facing the country. Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, furloughing schemes dominated the government's focus. Significance: This shows how pressing national issues can heavily influence policy priorities and shape a government's re-election chances. Point: The strength of the opposition. Example: Theresa May's minority government faced stagnation during Brexit due to an inability to pass substantial legislation. Significance: While governments usually have a majority, minority governments can struggle with policy-making, highlighting the importance of parliamentary support.

Question 44

4. Explain and analyse three ways in which the Cabinet can limit the power of the Prime Minister.

Answer 44

Point: The presence of powerful ministers ("big beasts"). Example: Gordon Brown's position as Chancellor under Tony Blair. Significance: Powerful ministers can constrain a Prime Minister's autonomy, especially during periods of majority government, potentially leading to challenges to the Prime Minister's authority. Point: Collective responsibility. Example: Too many Cabinet resignations can signal weakness, forcing Prime Ministers to carefully consider actions to avoid fracturing Cabinet unity. Significance: Former ministers can become focal points for internal opposition, sometimes leading to coups. Point: Cabinet meetings as forums for debate. Example: Prime Ministers use meetings to gauge opinions and reflect before committing to major policies. Significance: This demonstrates the potential for Cabinet to influence policy decisions and mitigate the risks of presidential-style governance by the Prime Minister.

Question 45

5. Explain and analyse three ways the executive is accountable to Parliament.

Answer 45

Point: Regular scrutiny of the Prime Minister. Example: Weekly Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) and appearances before select committees (e.g., Boris Johnson before the Liaison Committee). Significance: These events are televised, amplifying the impact of poor performance. Point: Adherence to the Ministerial Code. Example: Breaches of the Ministerial Code, such as Priti Patel's unauthorized meetings, can lead to suspension from the Cabinet. Significance: This demonstrates the extension of the rule of law to MPs and the executive branch. Point: Maintaining the support of the parliamentary party. Example: When support weakens, a Prime Minister's position becomes untenable (e.g., Margaret Thatcher and Geoffrey Howe). Significance: Former ministers often pose the greatest threat to a leader's position, exposing flaws and undermining their authority.

Question 46

6. Explain and analyse three ways that the executive is unaccountable to Parliament.

Answer 46

Point: Superficial scrutiny. Example: PMQs often prioritize style over substance, with the Prime Minister using rhetoric to avoid difficult questions and relying on supportive questions from their own party. Significance: While embarrassing moments can be damaging, they are atypical, and the Prime Minister often avoids meaningful accountability. Point: Ambiguous interpretation of the Ministerial Code. Example: Ministers often claim unawareness of errors, and with the Prime Minister's backing, are unlikely to face serious consequences. Significance: This allows for a lack of accountability, with minimal punishment beyond a "slap on the wrist." Point: Limited power of select committees. Example: The Privileges Committee could call Boris Johnson for a hearing on Partygate but had limited power to punish him beyond public humiliation. Significance: This illustrates the constraints on select committees' ability to enforce accountability.

Question 47

7. Explain and analyse 3 factors that explain how Prime Ministers select their cabinet.

Answer 47

Point: Inclusion of "big beasts." Example: Tony Blair's inclusion of Gordon Brown as Chancellor. Significance: These powerful figures limit the Prime Minister's autonomy, as they must be accommodated in key roles. Point: Patronage. Example: Theresa May's removal of 15 ministers upon taking office in 2016. Significance: New Prime Ministers often reshuffle the Cabinet, rewarding allies and removing rivals. Point: Considerations of diversity. Example: The need to include women, people from diverse racial backgrounds, and MPs representing different regions to ensure broader acceptance. Significance: This factor has gained increasing importance in recent years with the rise of identity politics.

Question 48

8. Explain and analyse 3 functions of cabinet committees.

Answer 48

Point: Making specific policy decisions. Example: The COVID-19 Strategy Committee aided the Prime Minister in making decisions on specific policy areas. Significance: Prime Ministers control the structure and function of these committees. Point: Bypassing full Cabinet decision-making. Example: Many decisions formally made by the full Cabinet are pre-determined in Cabinet committees. Significance: Decisions made in committees are typically binding on the Cabinet, giving them significant power. Point: Joining up government across departments. Example: Boris Johnson's implementation committees for COVID-19. Significance: Cabinet committees often cover multiple policy areas, extending the Prime Minister's influence across various government departments.

Question 49

9. Explain and analyse 3 functions of Cabinet.

Answer 49

Point: Determining key policy issues. Example: Keir Starmer's Cabinet determined the need for increased public spending and taxation. Significance: This demonstrates the Prime Minister's ability to balance presidential and core executive models, especially when dealing with powerful ministers. Point: Developing a strategy for legislation. Example: The Cabinet works out the order of legislation to prioritize manifesto pledges. Significance: This is usually straightforward due to the Prime Minister's typical majority. Point: Providing legitimacy to the Prime Minister's judgments. Example: Collective responsibility creates a show of unity and legitimacy for government decisions. Significance: This helps maintain a facade of competency and public support.

Question 50

10. Explain and analyse 3 powers of Cabinet ministers.

Answer 50

Point: Running their departments within agreed policies. Example: Ministers have significant autonomy over policy details in complex areas like Universal Credit, though the Prime Minister sets the overall direction. Significance: Their success depends on their departmental management skills. Point: Maintaining media links and pressure group connections. Example: Gavin Williamson's dismissal in 2019 for leaking information from a national security meeting. Significance: This power can undermine public perception of policies. Point: Resisting reshuffles if powerful enough. Example: Tony Blair's inability to remove Gordon Brown as Chancellor. Significance: Powerful ministers can constrain the Prime Minister's power.

Question 51

11. Explain and analyse how the PM and Cabinet can dictate events and policy-making.

Answer 51

Point: Imposing unpopular policies. Example: Margaret Thatcher's introduction of the poll tax in 1990 led to riots and ultimately contributed to her downfall. Significance: Even powerful Prime Ministers can be ousted for unpopular policies. Point: Deciding on major military interventions. Example: Tony Blair's decision to invade Iraq in 2003, without significant Cabinet or party pressure. Significance: This demonstrates the Prime Minister's capacity for unilateral action. Point: Calling early elections. Example: Theresa May's decision to call a snap election in 2017 due to Brexit-related difficulties. Significance: This illustrates the Prime Minister's power to shape the political calendar.

Question 52

12. Explain and analyse three ways in which PMs or cabinet ministers have taken individual responsibility.

Answer 52

Point: Accepting blame for departmental failings. Example: The Crichel Down affair, where John Dugdale took responsibility for his department's mishandling of farmland. Significance: This is atypical, as ministers usually blame junior staff. Point: Refusal to accept collective responsibility. Example: Robin Cook's resignation over the Iraq War. Significance: This damaged Tony Blair's reputation. Point: Taking responsibility for personal misconduct. Example: The resignation of an Matthew Hancock after kissing a collegue and breaking social distance rules Significance: This is a frequent cause of ministerial resignations.

Question 53

13. Explain and analyse three ways in which PMs or cabinet ministers have taken collective responsibility.

Answer 53

Point: Upholding a controversial decision despite internal dissent. Example: The eventual Brexit decision, despite Parliament's initial Remain vote. Significance: This highlights the strength of party discipline and the rarity of suspending collective responsibility. Point: Supporting a policy despite internal opposition. Example: Sunak's Rwanda deportation scheme, despite dissent within the Conservative Party. Significance: This demonstrates party loyalty and the maintenance of collective responsibility. Point: Maintaining unity during a crisis. Example: Continued support for COVID-19 furloughing despite Partygate. Significance: The government prioritized maintaining a united front to uphold collective responsibility.

Question 54

1. Explain and analyse three trends and developments in Parliament since the 19th century.

Answer 54

Point: Increasing democracy through expanding suffrage. Example: The 1928 Representation of the People Act granted women full suffrage. Significance: This made Parliament more representative of the UK population, reflecting a broader expansion of democratic rights. Point: Shifting power from the House of Lords to the House of Commons. Example: The Parliament Acts of 1911 and 1949 significantly reduced the Lords' power to delay legislation. Significance: This strengthened the Commons' position as the more democratically legitimate chamber, reflecting the growing importance of democratic principles. Point: Increasing diversity in the House of Commons. Example: The number of female MPs rose from one in 1919 to 220 in 2019. Significance: This better reflects the UK's demographic diversity, enhancing Parliament's representativeness.

Question 55

2. Three key positions in Parliament.

Answer 55

Point: Prime Minister. Example: Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party. Significance: While Parliament scrutinizes the government, the Prime Minister usually prevails due to their typical majority in the Commons. Point: Speaker. Example: John Bercow reprimanding and suspending Dennis Skinner for calling David Cameron a liar. Significance: The Speaker holds significant power over parliamentary procedure, ensuring fair debate. Point: Whips. Example: The withdrawal of the whip from 21 Tory MPs for defying instructions on a motion to take control of parliamentary business. Significance: Whips maintain party discipline and ensure party leaders' will is carried out.

Question 56

3. Three key functions of Parliament.

Answer 56

Point: Primary legislative body. Example: Parliament introduces, debates, and passes approximately 31-34 public bills annually. Significance: This is Parliament's primary role as the legislative branch of government. Point: Representation. Example: Rishi Sunak, a Conservative MP for Richmond (Yorks), represents his constituency's interests while advocating for his party's ideals. Significance: This allows both local and national interests to be represented. Point: Scrutiny of the government. Example: Tony Blair faced significant scrutiny over the Iraq War in select committees and PMQs. Significance: This ensures government accountability and effectiveness.

Question 57

4. Three features of the legislative process.

Answer 57

Point: Second reading of a bill. Example: The defeat of a Sunday Trading Bill in its second reading in 1986. Significance: Defeat at this stage, focusing on principles, is unusual. Point: Committee stage. Example: ⅔ of MPs on Public Bill Committees have relevant expertise. Significance: This stage allows for detailed examination and amendment of bills. Point: House of Lords stages. Example: The Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005 was considered by the Lords five times over 30 hours. Significance: The Lords have limited power to unilaterally alter legislation.

Question 58

5. Explain and analyse three features of parliamentary debate in the House of Commons.

Answer 58

Point: Impartiality of the Speaker. Example: Allocation of questions in PMQs to ensure all parties are heard. Significance: Impartiality is crucial for fair debate. Point: Role of party whips and discipline. Example: Use of the three-line whip to enforce party discipline on key legislation. Significance: This highlights the partisan nature of the Commons and ensures party cohesion. Point: Scrutiny as a form of replacement. Example: The existence of a "government in waiting" and PMQs, highlighting government failures and offering alternatives. Significance: This reflects the democratic nature of the Commons, showing that governments are replaceable.

Question 59

6. Explain and analyse three features of parliamentary debate in the House of Lords.

Answer 59

Point: Scrutiny as expert advice. Example: Lords with relevant expertise provide insight into bills. Significance: This reflects the Lords' unelected, expert nature. Point: Influence of crossbenchers. Example: 182 of 892 Lords are non-aligned, offering independent views. Significance: Crossbenchers balance and contribute impartial views. Point: Committee stage (Committee of the Whole House). Example: Every Lord can contribute, overseen by the Chairman of Committees, not the Speaker. Significance: This allows for broader participation than in the Commons.

Question 60

7. Explain and analyse three features of the legislative process in the House of Commons.

Answer 60

Point: Second reading of a bill. Example: Defeat of a Sunday Trading Bill in 1986. Significance: Government defeat at this stage is rare. Point: Committee stage. Example: ⅔ of MPs on Public Bill Committees have relevant expertise. Significance: This stage allows for detailed scrutiny and amendment. Point: Government dominance in bill introduction and passage. Example: In 2023-24, 19 government bills were introduced (14 passed), compared to 14 private members' bills (5 passed). Significance: The government largely controls the legislative agenda.

Question 61

8. Explain and analyse three features of the legislative process in the House of Lords.

Answer 61

Point: Prominence of private members' bills. Example: In 2023-24, 28 private members' bills were introduced, compared to 6 government bills. Significance: The government has less influence in the Lords than in the Commons. Point: Less partisan debate focused on scrutiny and improvement. Example: Appointment of Baroness Cass, a crossbencher pediatrician. Significance: The Lords act as a professional advisory chamber. Point: Final approval rests with the Commons. Example: The Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005 was considered five times by the Lords. Significance: The Commons has ultimate legislative authority.

Question 62

9. Three types of private member's bills.

Answer 62

Point: Ballot bills. Example: The Turing Bill (2016) was blocked after the government withdrew support. Significance: Controversial bills without government support are unlikely to pass. Point: Ten-minute rule bills. Example: The Guardianship Act (2017) originated as a ten-minute rule bill. Significance: These are often policy aspirations rather than fully developed bills. Point: Presentation bills. Example: The Cooper-Letwin and Benn Acts (preventing no-deal Brexit) were passed this way. Significance: These bills, introduced without debate, can be useful in unusual circumstances.

Question 63

10. Three roles of the MP.

Answer 63

Point: Representing constituents. Example: Zac Goldsmith's resignation over Heathrow expansion. Significance: MPs represent their geographic area and constituents' interests. Point: Representing specific interests. Example: MPs forming all-party groups on various issues. Significance: This allows for cross-party cooperation. Point: Constituency problem-solving. Example: MPs holding surgeries to address constituent concerns. Significance: This allows MPs to understand local issues and raise them in Parliament.

Question 64

11. Explain and analyse the roles of backbench MPs.

Answer 64

Point: Supporting the party line. Example: Supporting the government to defeat a motion to take control of parliamentary business. Significance: This is a key role, enforced by whips, reflecting the mandate theory. Point: Scrutinizing the government. Example: Jeremy Corbyn's scrutiny of the Blair government. Significance: This is essential for accountability. Point: Introducing private members' bills. Example: The Turing Bill. Significance: This allows backbenchers to influence public policy.

Question 65

12. Explain and analyse the roles of peers.

Answer 65

Point: Scrutinizing and reviewing bills. Example: Prevention of Terrorism Bill 2005. Significance: Peers use their expertise to improve legislation. Point: Scrutinizing the government in select committees. Example: The Communications and Digital Committee. Significance: This provides specialized scrutiny. Point: Advocating for specific causes. Example: Peers using their expertise in business, medicine, or law to influence policy. Significance: This ensures diverse perspectives are considered.

Question 66

13. Three theories of representation.

Answer 66

Point: Delegate theory. Example: Zac Goldsmith voting against a 3rd Runway at Heathrow. Significance: This is highly faithful to constituent views but not always electorally successful. Point: Burkean trustee theory. Example: Mps voting for the abortion act. Significance: This theory is weakened by party discipline, except during unusual events like Brexit. Point: Mandate theory. Example: Conservitive MPs voting for Brexit. Significance: MPs are often elected due to party affiliation rather than individual merits.

Question 67

14. Explain and analyse three arguments for the idea that the executive is effectively scrutinized.

Answer 67

Point: Parliamentary debates. Example: Defeat of air strikes over Syria in 2013. Significance: Parliament can influence policy, especially if government actions are unpopular. Point: Questions time. Example: John Major's weakening during PMQs. Significance: Public scrutiny can damage the executive's image. Point: Parliamentary committees. Example: Boris Johnson's poor performance before the Liaison Committee. Significance: Specialized scrutiny can lead to resignations.

Question 68

15. Explain and analyse three arguments against the idea that the executive is effectively scrutinized.

Answer 68

Point: Government dominance. Example: Easy passage of the Reeves budget despite unpopularity. Significance: Government majorities limit effective scrutiny. Point: Ineffectiveness of question time. Example: Frequent redirection of questions in PMQs. Significance: PMQs are often more theatrical than genuinely scrutinizing. Point: Government dominance in committees. Example: Low approval rate of non-government amendments in Public Bill Committees. Significance: Committees are often ineffective in scrutinizing the government.

Question 69

16. Three types of parliamentary committees.

Answer 69

Point: Public Bill Committees. Example: The Equality Bill Committee. Significance: These temporary committees lack accumulated expertise and are subject to government control. Point: Select Committees. Example: The Public Accounts Committee. Significance: These are the most significant committees for scrutinizing government spending and actions. Point: Lords Committees. Example: The Communications Committee. Significance: These specialized committees provide expert advice.

Question 70

18. Explain and analyse three roles of the opposition in Parliament.

Answer 70

Point: Scrutinizing the government. Example: Opposition to the Iraq War. Significance: This ensures government accountability. Point: Offering alternative solutions. Example: The shadow cabinet's alternative budget. Significance: This allows for a comparison of policy options. Point: Challenging government legislation. Example: Opposition to a no-deal Brexit. Significance: This ensures thorough consideration of legislation.

Question 71

20. Explain and analyse three ways in which Parliament interacts with other branches of government.

Answer 71

Point: Executive dominance. Example: Tony Blair's dominance after the 1997 election. Significance: The government typically controls the legislative agenda. Point: Scrutiny of the executive. Example: Scrutiny of Theresa May's Brexit deal. Significance: Parliament's role in checking the executive is often limited. Point: Respecting Supreme Court declarations of incompatibility. Example: Anderson v Secretary of State for Home Development. Significance: The Human Rights Act empowered the Supreme Court, though parliamentary sovereignty remains supreme.

Question 72

1. Three Features of the composition of the Supreme Court.

Answer 72

Point: Overwhelmingly white justices. Example: In 2021, there were no ethnic minority justices, compared to 14% of the UK population. Significance: This lack of diversity raises concerns about impartiality and representation. Point: Overwhelmingly Oxbridge-educated justices. Example: Over 90% of justices attended Oxbridge, compared to 1% of the UK population. Significance: This highlights a lack of social and educational diversity, potentially limiting perspectives. Point: Significantly older justices. Example: The average age of justices is over 65, compared to a UK average of 40. Significance: While experience is necessary, the overrepresentation of older individuals might limit diverse viewpoints.

Question 73

2. Three features of the appointment process.

Answer 73

Point: Role of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC). Example: The JAC convenes, considers nominees, and submits a report and nominee to the Lord Chancellor. Significance: This is more transparent and meritocratic than the previous system. Point: Role of the Lord Chancellor. Example: The Lord Chancellor accepts or requests reconsideration of the JAC's nominee. Significance: While the Lord Chancellor's influence is reduced, the executive retains some control. Point: Qualifications for nominees. Example: Candidates must have held high judicial office for at least two years or been a qualified practitioner for 15 years. Significance: This ensures that justices are highly qualified legal experts.

Question 74

4. Three key doctrines and principles that underpin the Supreme Court’s work.

Answer 74

Point: Rule of law. Example: The principle of equality before the law and presumption of innocence. Counter-example: Post-2001 anti-terrorism measures and parliamentary privilege. Significance: While a core principle of liberal democracy, exceptions exist, raising questions about its consistent application. Point: Judicial independence. Example: The judiciary's freedom from external control or influence. Counter-example: Executive influence on judicial appointments. Significance: While independence is crucial for impartiality, the appointment process raises concerns. Point: Judicial impartiality. Example: Judges making objective decisions free from personal bias. Significance: This ensures fair and unbiased judgments, preventing miscarriages of justice.

Question 75

5. Three ways that judicial independence is supported by the UK system.

Answer 75

Point: Open-ended tenure. Example: Justices cannot be removed unless impeached or retired. Significance: This protects justices from political pressure or threats. Point: Set salaries from the Consolidated Fund. Example: Salaries are protected from manipulation. Significance: This ensures financial independence from other branches of government. Point: Increased separation of powers (through the JAC). Example: The JAC's independent and transparent nomination process. Significance: This reduces executive influence on judicial appointments.

Question 76

6. Three ways in which judicial impartiality is guaranteed.

Answer 76

Point: Anonymity of judges. Example: Judges maintain private lives, rarely commenting on public or political issues. Significance: This helps distance their personal lives from their professional roles. Point: Political inactivity. Example: Judges cannot openly support political parties or pressure groups. Significance: This prevents bias from influencing their decisions. Point: Requirement for judicial justification. Example: Judgments are accompanied by explanations and publicly published. Significance: This ensures transparency and prevents decisions based on personal bias.

Question 77

7. Three reasons for why Supreme Court justices might not be impartial.

Answer 77

Point: Lack of diversity in composition. Example: Overrepresentation of white, middle-class, Oxbridge-educated men. Significance: This limits perspectives and may hinder impartial decision-making. Point: Politicization of the judiciary. Example: Increased involvement of senior judges in political conflicts due to legislation like the Human Rights Act 1998. Significance: This increased profile may threaten impartiality to avoid controversy. Point: Personal beliefs and philosophies. Example: Pre-existing beliefs influencing legal interpretations. Significance: This can lead to inconsistent judgments in similar cases due to differing contexts.

Question 78

8. Explain and analyse the impact of the Supreme Court on the legislature.

Answer 78

Point: Judicial review of executive actions. Example: R (Miller) v the Prime Minister (prorogation of Parliament). Significance: The Supreme Court reinforces parliamentary sovereignty by ensuring compliance with the law. Point: Declarations of incompatibility. Example: Anderson v Secretary of State for Home Development (minimum life sentences). Significance: This strengthens the Supreme Court's position, but Parliament retains the power to repeal the Human Rights Act. Point: Applying EU law (pre-Brexit). Example: Factortame (British ship ownership requirements). Significance: This significantly strengthened the Supreme Court's position against Parliament, but this power is no longer relevant post-Brexit.

Question 79

9. Three ways in which judicial review is considered important.

Answer 79

Point: Checks and balances. Example: Miller v The Prime Minister (prorogation of Parliament). Significance: Judicial review prevents branches of government from exceeding their powers. Point: Protecting rights and freedoms. Example: Tigere v Secretary of State for Business (student loan rights). Significance: The Supreme Court protects civil liberties against government actions. Point: Developing the constitution. Example: Unison v Secretary of State for Labour (labour tribunal fees). Significance: Judicial review establishes precedents that shape the UK constitution through common law.

Question 80

10. Three ways in which the Supreme Court is strengthened in recent decades.

Answer 80

Point: Impact of EU law (pre-Brexit). Example: Factortame. Significance: EU law supremacy empowered the Supreme Court against Parliament. Point: Human Rights Act 1998. Example: Tigere v Secretary of State for Business. Significance: The HRA created a higher law that the Supreme Court could enforce. Point: Increased public profile and acceptance of its rulings. Significance: The Court's clear rulings and increased media coverage have enhanced its authority and influence.

Question 81

12. Three ways in which the Supreme Court could be seen as a threat.

Answer 81

Point: Unelected nature. Significance: This is an inherent feature of judicial independence, but it can be perceived as undemocratic. Point: Growing authority. Significance: The Supreme Court's clearly defined powers and increased influence might be seen as a threat to other branches of government. Point: Quasi-legislative powers through common law. Significance: An unelected body effectively makes law through precedent.