Prime Minister and Executive - general knowledge

What is the executive in UK politics?

The executive is the branch of government responsible for implementing laws and running the country; it includes the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and government departments.

Who is the Prime Minister (PM)?

The PM is the head of government, leader of the majority party in the House of Commons, and head of the executive branch.

What is the Cabinet?

The Cabinet is a group of senior government ministers, usually heads of departments, chosen by the PM to help make key decisions.

What are government departments?

Government departments are administrative units responsible for specific areas of public policy, led by ministers and staffed by civil servants.

What is the role of the Prime Minister?

The PM sets government priorities, represents the UK internationally, chairs Cabinet meetings, and appoints ministers.

What powers does the Prime Minister have?

Power to appoint/dismiss ministers, set the political agenda, chair Cabinet, command support in the Commons, and lead foreign policy.

What limits the Prime Minister’s power?

Public opinion, Cabinet rebellions, Parliament, events/crises, party divisions, and leadership challenges.

What is Prime Ministerial government?

A system where the PM dominates the executive and often bypasses collective Cabinet decision-making.

What is Cabinet government?

A system where major decisions are made collectively by the Cabinet, with the PM as first among equals.

What is collective responsibility?

A convention that all ministers must publicly support government policy or resign.

What is individual ministerial responsibility?

A principle that ministers are accountable for their personal conduct and the performance of their departments.

What is the role of the Cabinet?

The Cabinet discusses key issues, resolves disputes between departments, approves policies, and coordinates government actions.

What is the role of junior ministers?

Junior ministers support senior ministers and help manage departments or specific areas of policy.

What is the Civil Service?

A politically neutral body of permanent officials who support the government in developing and implementing policy.

What is the role of special advisers (SPADs)?

Political appointees who assist ministers with advice, communication, and policy development.

What is a Cabinet reshuffle?

A change in the composition of ministers within the Cabinet, often used to reward loyalty or refresh the government’s image.

What is the difference between Cabinet and the PM?

The PM leads the Cabinet and holds significant individual power, but is theoretically first among equals.

How do events affect the PM's power?

Crises and unforeseen events (e.g. pandemics, wars) can either strengthen or weaken a PM’s authority depending on their response.

How does Parliament hold the executive to account?

Through PMQs, select committees, votes of no confidence, and debates.

What is a vote of no confidence?

A parliamentary motion declaring the government no longer has the support of the Commons; if passed, it can trigger a general election.

What makes a Prime Minister strong?

A large majority, party unity, strong media image, control over Cabinet, and popular mandate.

What can weaken a Prime Minister?

Small or no majority, internal party conflict, scandals, economic crises, and rebellion from MPs.

What is the role of Parliament in limiting the executive?

Parliament scrutinises legislation, questions ministers, and can reject bills or hold inquiries into government actions.

What is the importance of media to the executive?

Media shapes public perception of the PM and government; favourable coverage can boost legitimacy, while scandals can damage authority.

What is a presidential-style Prime Minister?

A PM who centralises power, dominates media, and acts independently of Cabinet—e.g. Blair or Johnson.