Evaluate The View That Backbenchers Exert Significant Influence In Parliament.

Thesis Point 1 - Threat to GOVT via rebellion

As they make up the majority of Govt. They are important in passing legislation. In 2012, 99 Tory backbenchers voted against reform of the HOL

Anti Thesis Point 1 - Party discipline

If a 3 line whip is enacted back benchers risk being removed from Party and having to sit as an independent

BoJo 2019 removed the whip from 22 MPS because they blocked a Brexit deal

Thesis Point 2 - Select Committees

This form of scutiny is independent and on govt departments on policy. Reports are public. Like the Human rights. Treasury committee challenge economic decisions by the GOVT

Anti-Thesis Point 2 - Select Committees have no power

BoJo was accused of waffling during a hearing. Their influence

is advisory. They can't change legislation

Thesis Point 3 - Raise issues in the Agenda

PM Qs and Backbench business committee Private members bills highlight serious shaping the agenda

Anti-Thesis Point 3 - lack of control in Parliament

Questions are often planted. Punch and Judy PMqs Private Member bills are rarely success without Govt backing