Parliament knowledge and examples

Which part of Parliament holds the most power?

The House of Commons because it is elected and can override the Lords.

What is the main function of the House of Commons?

to legislate, scrutinises the government and represents constituents.

What is the main function of the House of Lords?

to revise, scrutinises and amends legislation using its expertise.

How has the House of Lords become more assertive?

It increasingly proposes amendments and defeats the government on legislation.

What limits the power of the House of Lords?

The Parliament Acts allow the Commons to bypass the Lords.

What is the role of the Prime Minister in Parliament?

The Prime Minister leads the government and is accountable to Parliament.

What is the role of the Speaker of the House of Commons?

The Speaker maintains order and ensures debates follow parliamentary rules.

What is the role of the Leader of the House of Commons?

The Leader organises government business and the legislative timetable.

What is the Burkean (trustee) theory of representation?

Burkean representation means MPs use their own judgement.

What is the delegate theory of representation?

MPs directly reflect the views of their constituents.

What is the mandate theory of representation?

Governments implement policies promised in their election manifesto.

How can Parliament hold the government to account?

PMQs and departmental question times, Select committees and backbench rebellions.

How are select committees effective at scrutiny?

Select committees investigate government departments

What is one limitation of select committees?

They cannot force the government to accept their recommendations.

How can backbench MPs influence policy?

Backbenchers can rebel, propose amendments or introduce Private Members’ Bills.

What influences MPs when voting?

Party loyalty, constituency interests and personal beliefs

How can the Official Opposition challenge the government?

The Opposition uses debates, PMQs and Opposition Days

How can government dominate Parliament?

majority, authoritatrian leader and control the timetable

Why is parliamentary sovereignty debated today?

Due to devolution, the Supreme Court and international influences.

Give an example of the House of Lords being assertive.

The Lords proposed multiple amendments to Brexit legislation

Give an example of effective select committee scrutiny.

The Public Accounts Committee investigating PPE contracts during Covid

Give an example of a backbench MP influencing policy.

Graham Brady triggered leadership challenges to May and Johnson.