Parliament Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are the strengths of a bicameral parliament?
More people to consult, higher scrutiny, power balanced, accountability, represent different interests
What are the weaknesses of a bicameral parliament?
Unelected chamber has a democratic deficit, not fully equal due to commons democratic mandate, takes longer to pass laws, may be conflict between the two
What are the 4 types of peers in the lords?
Hereditary, life, lords spiritual, crossbenchers
What are the 6 key functions of parliament?
Legislation, scrutiny of gov, representation, accountability, debate, recruiting ministers
What is the role of the whips?
Make sure members of a party vote the same way
What is the strongest type of whip?
3 line whip, must attend and vote or face disciplinary action
What are frontbenchers and what is their role?
Government ministers and leading opposition MPs, have high media roles, focus time of executive functions
What are backbenchers and what is their role?
MPs, carry out the key work of parliament, scrutinise, vote, speak in debates, ask questions
What are the 2 most important parts of parliamentary privilege?
Free to criticise gov, conduct of members is regulated
What is the role of the speaker?
Regulate debate, maintain decorum, must be apolitical
What is parliamentary ping pong?
A bill gets amended and send back and forth constantly until an agreement is reached
What does the parliament act do?
Restricts length of time HoL can delay bills for - 2 years in 1911, 1 year in 1949
What is a vote of no confidence?
Vote to remove gov if parliament feels they aren’t doing well
What is the role of select committees?
Hold gov accountable for policy and decision making, supports parliament scrutiny
