AP Comp Gov UK parliamentary system cheat sheet

UK Parliament structure

Bicameral system: House of Commons and House of Lords.

House of Commons

Elected body, 650 Members of Parliament (MPs), controls budget.

House of Lords

Unelected body, life peers, bishops, hereditary peers. Advises Commons.

Role of the Prime Minister

Head of government, leads executive, appoints cabinet, responsible for policies.

True or False: The Queen has legislative power.

False: The Queen's role is ceremonial; Parliament holds actual legislative power.

Cabinet

Composed of senior government ministers, usually heads of departments. Implements policies.

Majority rule in Commons

Government formed by party with majority seats. If no majority, coalition may occur.

Legislation process

Proposal in Commons → Committee review → 3 readings → Lords review → Royal assent.

Functions of Parliament

Legislation, representation, scrutiny of government, and budget approval.

Question: What is a vote of no confidence?

A vote showing lack of support for the government; can lead to resignation or elections.

Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs)

Weekly session in Commons where PM answers questions from MPs; ensures accountability.

Parliament Acts 1911 and 1949

Allowed Commons to bypass Lords' veto under certain conditions. Strengthened Commons.

Fill in the blank: The Speaker of the House of Commons is responsible for __________.

Maintaining order during debates and ensuring rules are followed.

True or False: The House of Lords can initiate tax legislation.

False: Only the House of Commons can initiate tax and money bills.

Duties of the Opposition

Critiques government policies, proposes alternatives, holds government accountable.

Question: How are MPs elected?

Through first-past-the-post electoral system in single-member constituencies.

Major political parties in the UK?

Conservative Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, SNP, Plaid Cymru.

What is the role of political parties?

Organize elections, represent diverse interests, develop policies, mobilize voters.

True or False: The UK has a two-party system.

False. While dominated by two parties (Conservatives and Labour), other parties like the SNP and Liberal Democrats also play significant roles.

Fill in the blank: The UK electoral system is primarily a ____ system.

First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system.

Conservative Party's main ideology?

Centre-right; focuses on free market policies, individualism, and tradition.

What electoral process does the UK use for general elections?

First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system; candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins.

Impact of FPTP on UK elections?

- Disproportional representation - Wasted votes - Encourages tactical voting.

Labour Party's historical significance?

Founded in 1900, it represents the working class and has been a major player in UK politics.

How often are general elections held in the UK?

Every five years, unless called earlier by the Prime Minister or a vote of no confidence.

True or False: Coalition governments are common in the UK.

True. They occur when no party wins a majority, requiring parties to negotiate agreements.

What is the electoral threshold for parties in the UK?

There is no formal threshold, but winning a plurality of votes in constituencies is necessary.

Effects of party alignment on voter behavior?

Voters often align with parties that reflect their values, socio-economic status, or regional identity.

What is the purpose of party manifestos?

Outline policies and proposals; serve as a contract with voters during elections.

Comparison of FPTP vs. Proportional Representation?

FPTP: simple, quick results but less representative. Proportional: more accurate representation, but complex and slower results.

What influences voter turnout in the UK?

Factors include age, socioeconomic status, political engagement, and local issues.

Major impact of the SNP in recent elections?

Increased representation for Scottish interests and pushed for a second independence referendum.