Canada's Parliamentary System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Canada's parliamentary system, as instructed in the lecture notes.

Responsible Government

A form of government where the political executive must retain the confidence of the elected legislature and must resign or call an election if defeated on a vote of non-confidence.

House of Commons

The lower house of Canada's Parliament, where members are elected to represent the public.

Senate

The upper house of Canada's Parliament, consisting of appointed members who review legislation.

Crown

Represents the monarch in Canada and acts as a constitutional figurehead.

Constitution Act, 1867

The legislation that established the Constitution of Canada, outlining the structure of government and responsibilities.

Legislative Process

The steps through which proposed legislation is reviewed, amended, and voted upon by Parliament.

Constitutional Conventions

Unwritten rules that dictate how constitutional powers are exercised, considered binding but not legally enforceable.

Budget

An overview of government spending and tax changes presented during a parliamentary session.

Opposition MPs

Members of Parliament from parties other than the governing party, providing checks on government actions.

Official Opposition

The largest political party not in government, entitled to special privileges and resources.

Private Members

Members of Parliament who are not part of the cabinet or parliamentary secretaries, representing various interests.

Prime Minister

The head of government in Canada, typically the leader of the political party with the most seats in the House of Commons.

Cabinet

A body of ministers chosen by the Prime Minister, responsible for government policy, administration, and advising the Crown.

Governor General

The representative of the Canadian monarch, who carries out many of the monarch's constitutional and ceremonial duties.

Parliament of Canada

Composed of the Crown, the Senate, and the House of Commons, collectively responsible for making laws for the country.

Constitutional Monarchy

Canada's system of government, where the head of state (the monarch) inherits their position, and the head of government (the Prime Minister) is elected.

Federal System

A system of government in Canada where powers are divided between a central (federal) government and provincial/territorial governments.

Member of Parliament (MP)

An elected representative in the House of Commons, who represents a particular electoral district (riding).

Meech Lake Accord

A proposed package of constitutional amendments (1987) aimed at gaining Quebec's consent to the 1982 Constitution, notably recognizing Quebec as a "distinct society" and granting provinces more control over Senate appointments and immigration. It failed to be ratified by 1990.