The Prime Minister: Role

Who is the PM?

Head of the UK government

What are the roles of the PM?

- Political leadership

- National leadership

- Appointing the government

- Chairing the cabinet

- Managing the executive

- Prerogative powers

- Managing relations with parliament

- Representation of the UK in international affairs

How does the PM provide politcal leadership?

- Decides political direction taken by the government

- Sets priorities and strategies

- Shapes policy on high-profile issues

How does the PM provide national leadership?

- Predominant political figure in the UK

- Acts as a national leader in times of crisis

- Responsible for national security

- Acts as communicator-in-chief for the government

How does the PM appoint the government?

Has the power to appoint and dismiss ministers

How does the PM chair the cabinet?

- Chairs meetings

- Sets agenda

- Steers decisions

- Creates cabinet committees

- Holds bilateral meetings with ministers

How does the PM manage the executive?

- They are responsible for overall organisation of the government

- Head of the civil service

What are some examples of prerogative powers exercised by the government?

- Deployment of the armed forces

- Recommendations of public appointments

How does the PM manage relations with parliament?

- Makes statements and answers questions in the Commons

- Shapes the legislative programme

How does the PM represent the UK in international affairs?

Represents in high-level international diplomacy