Government 2: Prime Minister and Cabinet

What does 'Primus Inter Parus' mean in the context of the Prime Minister's role?

It means 'the first among equals,' describing how the Prime Minister leads the Cabinet in collective decision-making.

What is Cabinet Government?

The Cabinet is composed of 20-25 senior ministers who meet weekly to make collective decisions.

Name one factor that can affect the powers of a Prime Minister.

Parliamentary arithmetic, the state of the economy, how the PM handles national crises, coalitions, media portrayal, war and global politics, and opposition within their own party.

What is the significance of the Vote of No Confidence for a Prime Minister?

It is a non-binding vote that typically leads to resignation if the Prime Minister loses the vote, indicating a lack of support.

What does the term 'core executive collective management' refer to?

It refers to a style of government where the Prime Minister shares power evenly with the Cabinet.

Which Prime Ministers are known to have had core executive collective management?

Starmer, Sunak, May, Brown; while Truss, Johnson, and Blair did not.

What are the main powers of the executive?

Making policy, passing legislation, financing governmental decisions, and being the national first responder in emergencies.

How have the roles of Prime Ministers changed over recent years?

More PMs have adopted presidential styles of leadership, bypassing traditional cabinet meetings, and increased media focus on personalities.

Give an example of how policy is made due to a national crisis.

The 2020 Coronavirus Act required urgent government response to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

What was the Poll Tax and what impact did it have?

The Poll Tax was a tax introduced by Thatcher that was unpopular and led to widespread riots, ultimately contributing to her resignation.

What does the Good Chaps theory of government suggest about Prime Ministers?

It suggests that those in power should have good morals and accountability, with ministers stepping in if the PM acts wrongly.

Which manifesto commitment did the Conservatives make regarding childcare in 2017?

To increase the provision of free childcare for parents of 3-4 year olds from 15 hours to 30 hours a week.

What was a significant outcome of David Cameron's promise for a referendum in 2016?

The UK voted to leave the EU, leading to Cameron's resignation and subsequent policy changes for his successors.

What role do Special Advisors (SpAds) play in the Prime Minister's office?

They influence the PM's decisions and communications, often holding significant power over policy and strategy.

Which Prime Minister's policy change was influenced by Extinction Rebellion and public pressure on climate change?

Theresa May pledged to cut greenhouse gases to almost zero by 2050, partially due to public pressure from movements like Extinction Rebellion.

What marked the end of Margaret Thatcher's time as Prime Minister?

She resigned after losing the Tory leadership election primarily due to the backlash from the Poll Tax.

What significant event led to Boris Johnson's resignation in 2022?

He resigned under pressure following the 'Partygate' scandal, where he faced criticism for breaking lockdown rules.

Who were the components of the Core Executive?

The PM, the Cabinet, Senior Civil Servants, Cabinet Committees, and the Cabinet Office.

What did the 'Quad' consist of during 2010-2015?

It consisted of PM David Cameron, DPM Nick Clegg, Chancellor George Osborne, and Lib Dem Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander.