Features of political parties

what are the features of political parties

• members share similar views, options, values and goals

• the group has a hierarchy or formal organisation outlining who the leaders are , how members join, the structure of membership, their agenda and policy stances

• the group seeks election via a chosen candidate to represent their interests and implement their policies.

how do parties seek candidates

applicants must be a member of their chosen party and go through a national selection process to be approved as a candidate. if a candidate wins a seat they can claim to have the electoral mandate to represent that constituency in the House of Commons.

how do Political parties make polices (the manifesto)

• for the opposition they make proposals and suggest ideas

• for the ruling party’s

• labour: consult with party members over the development of policy.

• conservative: encourages consultation with members but the manifesto is likely drawn up by a senior member.

• liberal democrats and green party: give membership final say over what appears in the party manifesto.

how and why do political parties campaign

• campaigning is key to the Democratic process

• party activists raise awareness of their party and help voters understand the choice between candidates by delivering leaflets to voters and organising political events.

• the internet and social media is becoming more popular during the campaigning process

whats the process of campaigning

1. supply candidates

2. promoting the election

3. encouraging voters to turn out

4. providing information in policy and manifesto

5. be present during vote counting

what is representation

political parties allows everyone eligible to vote have a say with their opinion. this makes voters feel seen as in 2019 75.7% of people felt as if their political opinions were represented by the conservative and labour party.