Challenge and Transformation : Britain. 1851-1964. Keywords

What does the term Prime Minister mean?

The leader of the largest party in power.

What does the term Government Ministers mean?

Appointed by the Prime Minister. They are in charge of specific areas of government, for example, defence.

What does the term Chancellor of the Exchequer mean?

Minister in charge of monetry policy.

What does the term Cabinet mean?

A group of ministers, usually MP’s who are responsible for key areas of government.

What does the term House Of Lords mean?

Upper house made up of hereditary peers. In 1851 it had the power to reject bills from the House of Commons.

What does the term MPs mean?

Elected representative for each constituency (seat).

What does the term Backbenchers mean?

MPs who don’t have an official position in government or in their party.

What does the term Bills mean?

Potential new laws - they have to be passed by the house of lords of house of commons.

What does the term Amendments mean?

Suggested changes by MPs to bills

What does the term Act / Law mean?

When a bill is passed by both houses it becomes an Act of Parliament and part of British Law.

What does the term Minority Government mean?

A government that does not have an overall majority in the house of commons. Their MPs make up less than 50% of the total.

What does the term Coalition Government mean?

When two or more parties share power, so together they have a majority of MPs.

What does the term Constituency mean?

An area for which voters elect an MP.

What does the term Franchise mean?

The people who can vote