Democracy in Scotland

What does democracy mean?

Democracy means power to the people, allowing them to influence decision-making.

What is a key feature of a democratic society regarding elections?

Citizens must be able to participate in elections, typically by voting.

What is the voting age for Scottish Parliament elections?

The voting age is 16 for Scottish Parliament elections.

What is the voting age for Westminster elections?

The voting age is 18 for Westminster elections.

What must elections be free from to be considered fair?

Elections must be free of corruption, including bribery.

How often do Scottish Parliament elections occur?

Scottish Parliament elections occur every 4 years.

How often do Westminster elections occur?

Westminster elections occur every 5 years.

What civil liberties are granted in a democracy?

Civil liberties include freedoms of speech, expression, and the right to form political parties.

What are reserved powers?

Reserved powers are issues decided by the UK Parliament, such as defense and foreign affairs.

What are devolved powers?

Devolved powers are issues that the Scottish Parliament can decide on, such as education and health.

Who controls education policy in Scotland?

The Scottish Parliament controls education policy, including the Curriculum for Excellence.

What health system does the Scottish Government manage?

The Scottish Government manages the NHS in Scotland.

What transport decisions can the Scottish Parliament make?

The Scottish Parliament can manage rail services, roads, and public transport projects.

What role does the First Minister of Scotland play?

The First Minister leads the Scottish Government and makes final decisions on devolved matters.

Who was the First Minister of Scotland after the 2021 election?

Nicola Sturgeon was the First Minister after the 2021 election.

What is one responsibility of the First Minister regarding cabinet appointments?

The First Minister appoints cabinet secretaries and government ministers.

How does the First Minister represent Scotland internationally?

The First Minister builds diplomatic and trade relationships and represents Scotland abroad.

What is a key argument for the power of the First Minister?

The First Minister can approve and reject policies, making them very powerful.

What is a limitation on the power of the First Minister?

The First Minister is only responsible for devolved matters and cannot make decisions on reserved matters.

What must the First Minister do in parliament?

The First Minister must answer questions in parliament, which can be challenging.

What is one political right citizens have in a democracy?

The right to vote is a fundamental political right in a democracy.

What is a responsibility that comes with the right to vote?

Citizens should use their right to vote when they have the chance.

What is the right to protest in a democracy?

Citizens have the right to protest peacefully, following the law.

Why do people participate in politics in Scotland?

People participate because they believe they can make a difference and influence politics.

What recent issues have prompted protests in Scotland?

Issues such as Independence, Climate Change, and Black Lives Matter have prompted protests.

What are some reasons people in Scotland participate in politics?

To see differences in their lives, protect their rights, and influence policies like free university education and prescriptions.

How does participation help protect rights?

People participate to gain and protect their rights, especially in countries where rights are threatened by dictatorships.

What is a common feeling among underrepresented groups in politics?

Many feel excluded and think, 'Why bother? Politics isn't for me.'

What is one reason individuals may not participate in elections?

They may feel their individual participation won't make a difference.

What is a Party-Political Broadcast?

Mini adverts created by political parties to be shown on TV during election campaigns.

What is a manifesto in political terms?

A collection of policies that a party promises to implement, helping voters make informed choices.

What campaign method involves going door-to-door to encourage votes?

Canvassing & leafleting.

What is the purpose of debates in elections?

To allow voters to hear directly from candidates and judge their performance and statements.

How did Siobhan Brown engage with voters in her campaign?

She canvassed in Ayr & Prestwick, knocking on doors and distributing leaflets.

What role do individuals play in election campaigns on social media?

They share posts to increase visibility and support for their political party.

How do political parties prepare their leaders for debates?

They provide training and practice sessions to ensure leaders are ready for public debates.

What is one role of the media in elections?

To provide a platform for parties to promote themselves and reach voters.

How does the media promote public concerns during elections?

By gathering public views and presenting them to candidates, making issues known to voters.

What is the primary job of MSPs in the Scottish Parliament?

To represent their constituents during law-making and scrutiny of the Scottish Government.

How do MSPs participate in debates?

They meet in the debating chamber to discuss issues and propose solutions.

What is the significance of Question Time for MSPs?

It allows MSPs to ask important questions of government ministers that matter to their constituents.

What is the function of Parliament Committees?

To break down the workload of MSPs into smaller groups focusing on specific areas like Health or Education.

What example illustrates MSPs debating a significant issue?

MSPs debated the ban on smacking children in the Scottish Parliament.

What was one promise made in the SNP's 2021 manifesto?

That all students should have a laptop or tablet in school.

What is a common challenge faced during canvassing?

Candidates may find that people are not home or do not want to engage.

What is one way the media covered the 2021 election?

By hosting the BBC Leaders Debate where candidates answered public questions.

What is a key reason for the low representation of women in Scottish politics?

Only one woman has ever been in charge of Scotland's democracy.

What is the impact of vague manifestos on voter engagement?

Voters may not read them or understand the promises made, leading to disengagement.

What is the role of political parties in elections?

To prepare leaders, produce manifestos, and engage with voters through various campaign methods.