UK COMP GOV

What is a key feature of the British political system?

Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

What event is associated with June 1215 in Britain?

The issuance of the Magna Carta.

What was the significance of the Parliament Act of 1911?

It stripped the House of Lords of much of its power.

What did the Reform Act of 1832 accomplish?

It extended the right to vote to a larger section of the male population.

What does universal suffrage refer to?

The right of all adults to vote regardless of gender or property ownership.

Define devolution in the context of the UK government.

The delegation of powers from the national government to regional governments.

What was the Glorious Revolution of 1688?

It was a bloodless coup that resulted in the ousting of King James II in favor of William and Mary.

What term describes the process of transitioning from a monarchy to a parliamentary system in the UK?

Gradualism.

What are life peers in the UK Parliament?

Individuals appointed to the House of Lords for their lifetime due to their achievements.

What does the term 'majority' refer to in voting?

Obtaining over 50% of the votes.

What is plurality in the context of elections?

Winning the most votes, but not necessarily a majority.

What is a 'hung parliament'?

A situation where no party obtains a majority of seats in Parliament.

Who was Tony Blair?

The first Labour Prime Minister in several decades, serving from 1997 to 2007.

What is the significance of the year 2015 in UK politics?

The year when no party achieved enough votes to gain a majority, leading to negotiations.

What is the Cabinet in the UK government?

A group of senior government ministers chosen by the Prime Minister.

What is the difference between the House of Commons and the House of Lords?

The House of Commons is elected while the House of Lords is appointed or hereditary.

What does the Human Rights Act of 1998 require the UK to do?

It requires the UK to comply with the European Convention on Human Rights.

What is the role of the Scottish Parliament?

To govern devolved areas such as health and education in Scotland.

What principle underlies parliamentary sovereignty in the UK?

Parliament can create, amend, or repeal any law.

What is a coalition government?

A government formed by two or more political parties that work together to achieve a majority.

What was Brexit?

The term used to describe the UK's departure from the European Union after the 2016 referendum.

What override does European law have in the context of UK law?

European law can override UK law where applicable.

Which devolved governments enjoy the most power?

Scotland and the Scottish government enjoy the most powers

What trend did the Liberal Democrats represent in UK politics?

An increasing challenge to the Conservative-Labour two-party system.

What are backbenchers in the UK Parliament?

Term for an up and coming politician

What is the significance of the year 1928 in UK democracy?

Universal Suffrage became a thing

Define the concept of 'collective responsibility' within the UK Cabinet.

The principle that Cabinet members must publicly support all governmental decisions.

What prompted the need for electoral reform in the UK?

Issues related to representation and changes in political dynamics.

What event marked the end of the British Empire?

The gradual decolonization that occurred post-World War II.

What is the UK's relationship to the EU after Brexit?

The UK seeks to establish new trading relationships independent of the EU.

What social issues have emerged as significant in post-Brexit British society?

Increased scrutiny and potential discrimination against immigrants and minorities.

What aspect of governance is emphasized by the 'Westminster model' of democracy?

Parliamentary sovereignty and the fusion of powers.

Describe the primary role of the Prime Minister in the UK government.

The Prime Minister serves as head of government and is responsible for running the country.

Who usually votes for candidates in the single-member districts of the UK?

Voters typically vote for the party rather than the individual candidate.

What is a 'safe district' in UK elections?

A voting district where a party has a strong chance of winning.

What major constitutional change occurred in 2009 regarding the judiciary in the UK?

The establishment of the UK Supreme Court as the highest court of appeal.

What are the significant features of Britain's two-party system?

Dominance of Conservative and Labour parties with limited influence from smaller parties.

How does proportional representation differ from the FPP system?

Proportional representation allocates seats based on the percentage of votes received.

What legislative power does the House of Commons have over financial matters?

Only the House of Commons can propose taxation and budgetary legislation.

How has globalization impacted Britain’s political culture?

It has contributed to shifting views on multiculturalism and national identity.

What was the outcome of Scottish independence referendum in 2014?

Scotland voted to remain part of the United Kingdom.

What system does the UK rely on for its voting process?

First Past the Post system.

How does the UK approach international military conflict?

The UK typically supports NATO and has historically aligned with US military efforts.

What significant political event happened in June 2016?

The Brexit referendum where the UK voted to leave the EU.

What challenges does the UK face post-Brexit?

Uncertain trade relationships and potential internal divisions within the UK.

What is the impact of digital technology on British politics?

It has become a powerful tool for mobilization and political discussions.

What is the purpose of select committees in the UK Parliament?

To scrutinize government actions and hold inquiries into specific issues.

What has been a major criticism of the UK electoral system?

It does not represent minority opinions adequately.

What does the term 'neoliberalism' refer to in UK politics?

An economic and political approach that promotes free-market capitalism.

What did the Labour Party focus on under Tony Blair?

Modernization and rebranding as 'New Labour.'

What is one historical significance of the Battle of Hastings in 1066?

It marked the beginning of Norman rule in England.

What continues to be a significant social issue in the UK?

Gender pay gap and inequality.

What historical document placed limits on the power of the monarchy in the UK?

The Magna Carta.

What does the term 'fusion of powers' mean in the UK government context?

The intermingling of executive and legislative branches of government.

What impact did the Industrial Revolution have on British democracy?

It led to significant social changes and demands for increased suffrage.

What does the Cabinet Office in the UK do?

Coordinates government business and supports the Prime Minister.

What is a legislative bill in the UK Parliament?

A proposal for new legislation that must be debated and approved.

What is the role of the Prime Minister's Policy Unit?

To develop and coordinate government policy initiatives.

Define the term 'collectivism' as it applies to UK politics post-World War II.

A political consensus agreeing on state responsibility for economic and social welfare.

What was unique about the 2010 UK general election?

It resulted in a hung parliament with no clear majority.

What principle did the Bill of Rights 1689 establish in the UK?

It established parliamentary sovereignty and limited royal power.

What is a significant challenge for the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn?

Re-establishing viability amidst a divided political landscape.

What is the purpose of the Fixed-Term Parliament Act of 2011?

To set a five-year term for parliaments and limit the Prime Minister's power to call elections.

What do 'life peers' have in common in the House of Lords?

They are appointed for their lifetime and do not pass their titles to their heirs.

In terms of voting systems, what does the UK avoid?

Proportional representation.

What political model has Britain traditionally adhered to?

A two-party system with Conservative and Labour parties.

In terms of regional governance, what is unique about Scotland and Wales compared to England?

They have their own devolved parliaments with varying degrees of legislative power.

How are members of the House of Lords selected?

Through appointment by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister or by inheritance.

What economic philosophy heavily influenced British politics in the late 20th century?

Neoliberalism.

What event in 2007 marked a transition in UK politics?

Blair resigned and Gordon Brown took over as Prime Minister

What was the outcome of the 1997 referendum on devolution in Scotland?

Scotland voted to create its own parliament.

What are the key criticisms of the UK's constitution?

It lacks a single written document and is largely based on conventions.

What does 'gradualism' refer to in the context of UK political changes?

The slow and incremental approach to reforming the British government.

What critical role do 'whips' play in the UK Parliament?

To ensure party discipline and manage voting among party members.

What is the main aim of the UK's National Health Service (NHS)?

To provide comprehensive and universal medical care to all residents.

What did the phrase 'Big Society' refer to in David Cameron's government?

An initiative to encourage community involvement and reduce state reliance.

What is one major social issue highlighted in recent UK elections?

Rising inequality and the impact of austerity on the working class.

What is a 'life peerage'?

A title granted for life, not inherited, usually as recognition for service in a specific field.

Define 'political culture' within the context of British society.

The shared values and norms that influence political behavior and institutions.

What implications did the 2016 Brexit vote have for UK politics?

It led to significant political restructuring and debates over national identity.

What does the absence of federal structures indicate about the unity of the UK?

It suggests a centralized authority and a unitary system of governance.

What significant political change occurred due to the 2009 judicial reforms?

The establishment of the UK Supreme Court, separating judicial powers from the House of Lords.

What historical event is associated with the term 'Sick Man of Europe'?

Refers to Britain's struggles with economic performance in the late 20th century.

What impact did the Industrial Revolution have on political representation in the UK?

It demanded more democratic reforms and extended voting rights.

What mechanism allows the UK Parliament to obtain oversight of government expenditure?

Select committees that scrutinize departments' spending and policies.

How do the House of Lords' powers compare to the House of Commons'?

The House of Lords can delay but not permanently block legislation.

What constitutional reform was initiated by the Labour government under Tony Blair?

The establishment of devolved parliaments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

What was the public response to austerity measures following the 2008 economic downturn?

Increased protests and demands for governmental accountability.

What is the significance of the term 'Cleggmania'?

It refers to the surge in popularity of Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg during the 2010 election.

What has characterized British identity in the 21st century?

Increased complexity stemming from cultural, racial, and socioeconomic factors.

What ongoing debate is central to the future of UK's political structure?

The balance between parliamentary sovereignty and devolved regional powers.

What are ethnic minorities in the UK facing today?

Systematic inequalities and challenges related to representation and acceptance.

What happens during a vote of no confidence in the UK government?

If successful, it can lead to the resignation of the Prime Minister.

What do the UK's electoral laws ensure about general elections?

They ensure elections maintain fairness but might lead to underrepresentation of smaller parties.

In what year did UK officially enter the European Union?

1973.

What response was triggered by the 2016 Brexit vote within Scotland?

Renewed debates around Scottish independence and a second referendum.

Who was the first Prime Minister of the UK after the Brexit vote?

Theresa May.

What are grassroots movements in recent UK history primarily focused on?

Advocating for climate action and accountability in politics.

What major social changes arose in the UK from the economic downturn after 2008?

Heightened awareness of economic disparities and calls for social justice.

How did the Labour Party evolve under Ed Miliband?

Shifted focus towards a more progressive platform distancing from New Labour ideals.