Scrutiny Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of parliamentary scrutiny in the UK government?
To hold the government accountable and ensure transparency in its actions.
True or False: Select committees are responsible for scrutinizing government departments.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the main chamber of Parliament where government policies are debated.
House of Commons
Which body conducts inquiries into specific government actions or policies?
Select Committees
What is the role of the Opposition in parliamentary scrutiny?
To challenge and question the government on its policies and decisions.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a method of parliamentary scrutiny? A) Debates B) Votes C) Public Opinion Polls
C) Public Opinion Polls
What is the significance of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in the context of scrutiny?
It allows Members of Parliament to question the Prime Minister directly about government actions.
True or False: The House of Lords has no role in scrutinizing legislation.
False
What are ‘whips’ in the context of parliamentary scrutiny?
Members of Parliament responsible for party discipline and ensuring attendance for votes.
Fill in the blank: __________ is the process by which Parliament examines and approves government spending.
Budget scrutiny
Which committee is responsible for examining the government’s spending and financial management?
Public Accounts Committee
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a method used by the public to influence parliamentary scrutiny? A) Lobbying B) Voting C) Protesting
A) Lobbying
What is the function of the Speaker of the House of Commons in scrutiny?
To maintain order during debates and ensure fair questioning.
True or False: All parliamentary committees have the power to compel witnesses to give evidence.
False
What does the term ‘accountability’ mean in the context of government scrutiny?
The obligation of the government to explain its actions and decisions to Parliament and the public.
Fill in the blank: __________ scrutiny refers to the examination of legislation before it becomes law.
Legislative
Which parliamentary procedure allows MPs to challenge the government’s decisions?
Early Day Motions (EDMs)
What is the role of the National Audit Office (NAO) in governmental scrutiny?
To provide independent assessments of government spending and efficiency.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a type of scrutiny? A) Financial B) Political C) Both A and B
C) Both A and B
What is the significance of public petitions in the context of parliamentary scrutiny?
They allow citizens to raise issues that Parliament may consider for discussion.
