UK 9 Markers

Question 1

Trustee definition and idea

Answer 1

MPs use their own judgment and expertise to make decisions in the national interest, even if it goes against the views of their constituents.

Question 2

Trustee Key thinker

Answer 2

Key thinker: Edmund Burke – “Your representative owes you his judgment…”

Question 3

Trustee model example

Answer 3

During the 2023 Illegal Migration Bill debate, some Conservative MP David Davis opposed the bill despite its popularity among parts of the electorate, citing legal and ethical concerns.

Question 4

Trustee model strength and weakness

Answer 4

Strength: allows informed, expert decisions in complex situations.
Weakness: can appear undemocratic if goes against public often

Question 5

Mandate definition and idea

Answer 5

MPs are elected on a party platform and should follow the party manifesto. The party has a mandate to govern as promised in the election.

Question 6

Mandate model example

Answer 6

After the 2019 general election, Boris Johnson’s government implemented Brexit and the Rwanda asylum policy, arguing they had a clear mandate from voters based on the manifesto.

Question 7

Mandate strength and weakness

Answer 7

Strength: Provides clarity and legitimacy for government actions.
Weakness: Restricts MP independence and can ignore constituent concerns.

Question 8

Delegate model definition and idea

Answer 8

MPs act as mouthpieces for their constituents, expressing their direct views rather than using personal judgment.

Question 9

Delegate model example

Answer 9

In 2016, Zac Goldsmith, MP for Richmond Park, resigned from Parliament in protest against the government’s decision to approve a third runway at Heathrow Airport.

Question 10

Delegate model strength and weakness

Answer 10

Strength: Ensures direct accountability and responsiveness to constituents’ views.
Weakness: May limit the representative’s ability to use personal judgment in complex or unforeseen situations.