Constitutional Reform Since 1997

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts about constitutional reform in the UK since 1997.

What did the House of Lords Act of 1999 accomplish?

It removed all but 92 hereditary peers from the House of Lords.

What electoral system was introduced for European elections?

Closed List Proportional Representation.

What does the 2015 Recall of MPs Act allow constituents to do?

It allows constituents to sign a petition to trigger a by-election if their MP has been convicted of a crime.

What is the requirement for constituents to initiate a by-election under the 2015 Recall of MPs Act?

At least 10% of constituents must sign the petition.

What significant change did the 2011 Fixed Terms Parliament Act bring?

It fixed the term of general elections to every 5 years, unless a two-thirds majority was passed in the House of Commons.

What were devolved assemblies established in?

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

What document did the Human Rights Act of 1998 enshrine into UK law?

The European Convention on Human Rights.

What does the Freedom of Information Act of 2000 allow citizens to do?

It allows citizens to access files from any government body unless it affects national security and other major exceptions.

What characteristics are protected under the Equality Act of 2010?

Religion, Age, Disability, Gender reassignment, Marriage/civil partnership, Pregnancy/maternity, Belief, Race, Sexual orientation.

What significant establishment was made by the Constitutional Reform Act of 2005?

It established a Supreme Court and removed the Law Lords from the House of Lords.