Parliamentary law making

The house of commons

The members are elected in a general election. The political party with the most members in the house of commons then forms a government. Most bills start in the house of commons.

The house of lords

This is a non-elected body. The main role is as a check on the commons. The power of the lords is limited.

Green and white paper

An idea for a new law is called a green paper. A firm proposal is called a white paper.

How an Act is made: stage 1

House of commons - first reading.

A formal introduction of the Bill. The name and main aims are read out. There is no vote.

Stage 2

House of commons - second reading.

The main debate about the main principles not the smaller details. There is a likely vote.

Stage 3

House of commons - commitee stage.

Detailed examination of the bill by a committee. Every line is rigorously examined and amendments can be made.

Stage 4

House of commons - report stage

The committee reports back any amendments to the house. The MP’s can either reject or approve them. If no amendments were made, there is no report stage.

Stage 5

House of commons - third reading.

This stage is normally a formality as it is unlikely to fail at this late stage. MP’s vote on whether to approve or reject the bill. It is now passed to the house of lords.

House of lords

It is now passed back to the house of lords where it goes through the same 5 stages. If they make amendments, it goes back to the house of commons to consider. This is called “ping pong”.

Final stage

Royal assent. This is where the monarch formally signs the bill. It will now become an Act in the future.

What influences Parliament to make laws: political influence

Each political party has policies and drafts a manifesto before a general election. If elected, this influences laws that may be introduced as they try to keep their manifesto promises.

Political influence evaluation

S: the law making process is efficient. Proposals are ready if elected.

Government majority in Parliament means laws are more likely to be passed.

L: minority groups in Parliament may find it hard to get laws passed.

New government can change the laws of the previous government.

Media & public opinion

Strong public opinion may lead to a change in the law. Media may play an important role in highlighting problems.

Media & public opinion evaluation

S: brings attention to the areas of government needing reform. E.g. handgun law following Dunblane massacre.

L: responding quickly to high profile incidents can lead to poorly drafted law.

Media may manipulate news and create public opinion.

Pressure groups

They have a particular interest and bring issues to the attention of government. Types:

Sectional: represent the interests a particular group e.g. the law society.

Cause: promote a particular cause e.g. greenpeace.

Pressure groups evaluation

S: they raise important issues e.g. environmental.

A wide range of issues are brought to parliaments attention e.g. influenced changes following dunblane massacre and the law on homosexuality.

L: groups try to impose ideas even when the majority of the public don’t agree.

Two pressure groups can have conflicting interests and want opposing things e.g. for or against legal euthanasia.