Evaluate the view that the UK has an elective dictatorship

Thesis Point 1 Electoral system + party discipline produce executive dominance

FPTP usually produces single party governments Strong party discipline and whip system mean governments can pass legislation easily.

• Executive dominates Commons timetable and agenda.

• Example: 1997 Labour and 2019 Conservative governments passed major legislation with few defeats.

• Shows structural executive dominance → supports “elective dictatorship” claim.

Thesis Point 2 Executive Control of Parliament

Government controls parliamentary timetable. Uses delegated legislation (statutory instruments) to pass measures with little debate. “Henry VIII” clauses allow ministers to amend laws without full parliamentary approval. Weakens legislative scrutiny and boosts executive power.

Thesis Point 3 Constitutional Crises Show Executive Dominance

2019 prorogation of Parliament during Brexit — attempt to limit scrutiny.Critics argued it was an abuse of executive power.Supports Hailsham’s warning that majorities can act like dictators between elections.

Anti Thesis 1 Democratic Legitimacy and Mandate

Majority governments have a clear electoral mandate .Voters can hold them accountable at elections. Governments implement manifesto promises backed by public choice. Dominance is therefore democratic, not dictatorial — voters freely choose them.

Anti thesis point 2 Parliamentary Checks and Backbench Power

Select committees, urgent questions, and backbench rebellions increase scrutiny. The Speaker can protect Parliament’s interests Committees often expose weaknesses in policy. Example: Backbench revolts have delayed or forced amendments to government bills Limits are inconsistent but real — executive power is checked, not absolute.

Anti Thesis point 3 Legal and Constitutional Checks

Judicial review and the Supreme Court can rule against government actions (e.g. 2019 prorogation case). Devolution, media, and public opinion act as external checks.Courts and public backlash show the constitution is flexible enough to correct overreach.Executive dominance exists but is not uncontested.