The British Constitution and The Monarchy

Flashcards covering key aspects of the British Constitution and the Monarchy.

British Constitution

Britain does not have a codified constitution but an unwritten one formed of Acts of Parliament, court cases, and conventions.

what’s the symbol of the m?

The royal coat of arms is the heraldic symbol representing the monarchy of the United Kingdom, featuring a lion and a unicorn, along with the shield displaying the emblems of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Monarchy

The oldest secular institution in Britain with hereditary hɪˈrɛdɪtərɪ succession to the throne (up until 2015, only for Protestants).

inherit

what’s the house of Windsor?

The current royal family of the United Kingdom, which was established in 1917 by King George V. It succeeded the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha during World War I due to anti-German sentiment.

the Windsors

The Crown

Formal source of legislative and executive powers

Head of State, Head of the Executive, Head of the Judiciary, Head of the Legislatureˈlɛdʒɪslətʃə^r, Supreme Governor of the Church of England, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Head of the Commonwealth.

• In 1534, King Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church after the Pope refused to annul his marriage.

• Through the Act of Supremacy, Parliament declared Henry "Supreme Head of the Church of England."

• This made the monarch the official leader of the Church of England, instead of the Pope.

The Monarch's Duties : appearance

according to law absolute powers

Appointing the UK Prime Minister

Opening and dissolving Parliament

Giving Royal Assent to bills

Appointing government ministers and public figures

Granting honors

Fulfilling international duties as Head of State

Have regular confidential audiences with the Prime Minister.

in reality

But de facto he exercises no power at all and is primarily a ceremonial figure.

The PM is the leader of the majority party in Parliament

Royal assent is automatic

she delivers speeches written by the government.

how much does the royal family cost?

1. Sovereign ˈsɒvrɪn Grant

• £86.3 million (2022–23)

• Pays for: official duties, royal travel, palace maintenance

• Cost per UK taxpayer: £1.29/year

2. Security Costs

• Paid by the Metropolitan Police

3. Local Visit Costs

• Covered by local councils

4. Private Income

• Comes from estates & investments (Privyprɪvi Purse)

• King voluntarily pays tax on private income

Critics of the Monarchy

Critics argue that the monarchy is out of date and incompatible with modern democratic values. Its opulent lifestyle is seen as a waste of taxpayers' money, especially during economic hardship. The hereditary nature of the monarchy is viewed as undemocratic, as power is inherited rather than earned through merit or election. Additionally, the monarchy is associated with aristocratic privilege and elitism, reinforcing social inequalities. Some critics also argue that the monarchy predominantly represents English identity, alienating those from other parts of the UK, such as Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Supporters of the Monarchy

Supporters of the Monarchy believe that it is a popular and cherished institution that serves as a symbol of national unity/stability, embodying shared history and traditions. The monarchy provides stability and continuity, especially during times of political change or uncertainty. As a non-elected head of state, the monarch is not subject to political manipulation or partisan interests, allowing them to act in the best interests of the country as a whole. The monarchy also plays a crucial role in promoting British interests abroad, enhancing the UK's reputation and diplomatic relations. Furthermore, the monarch is seen as a moral leader and a custodian of the past, preserving traditions and values that have shaped the nation.

G can focus on its actual responsibilities

most people are in favour

what’s Windsor Castle?

Windsor WIN-zer Castle is an official residence of the British monarchy located in Berkshire, England. It serves as a venue for royal ceremonies and events, and it is one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world.

a fire damaged it and people weren’t happy to repay it

who is presently in line to be monarch of England?

The current heir apparent is Prince William of Wales, the eldest son of King Charles III.

which king had speech therapy

George VI, who overcame a stammer and became a symbol of resilience during World War II.

the name of husband of Elizabeth

II, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

what kind of monarchy is E?

A constitutional/parliamentary monarchy where the monarch's powers are limited by law and parliamentary governance.