Evaluate the view that Parliament now carries out its functions effectively?

Weaker Counterargument: Parliament has become more representative, helping it fulfil the representative function effectively.
Explanation: Greater diversity among MPs increases the chances of marginalised groups being heard and represented in legislation.
Evidence: 40% of MPs are women, 14% are from BAME backgrounds (vs. 18% UK population), and 11% are LGBTQ+ (vs. 3.2% nationally). Sam Carling, aged 23, is the youngest MP ever elected.
Stronger Argument: However, deeper structural elitism still limits representation, especially in terms of class and education.
Explanation: Parliament continues to be dominated by a narrow demographic, reducing how well it reflects or understands the lived experiences of most citizens.
Evidence: 23% of MPs went to Oxbridge, 85% have degrees (vs. 33% nationally), and 46% of Conservative MPs were privately educated. This undermines the representativeness of Parliament.

Weaker Counterargument: Parliament uses effective mechanisms like Select Committees and votes of no confidence to scrutinise the executive.
Explanation: These tools are essential in checking government power and holding ministers to account.
Evidence: 40% of Select Committee recommendations are accepted; Theresa May’s government survived a vote of no confidence in 2019.
Stronger Argument: However, in practice, scrutiny is often undermined by partisanship, limited debate time, and scandal cover-ups.
Explanation: Whips and party loyalty dilute genuine questioning, and scandals reveal a culture of impunity.
Evidence: Three-line whips punish dissent (e.g., 21 Tory MPs sacked in 2019 by Boris Johnson). Scandals like Chris Pincher, Michael Fallon, and Mark Menzies suggest accountability failures. PMQs is seen as “pure theatre” with little serious oversight.

Weaker Counterargument: Parliament effectively passes legislation, especially with a majority government.
Explanation: Recent years have seen significant laws passed to address social and economic issues.
Evidence: Employment Rights Bill (2025) enhanced workers’ rights; Great British Energy Act (2025) created a state-owned energy company.
Stronger Argument: Yet, limited success of backbench MPs and shallow engagement with major issues show flaws in law-making.
Explanation: Private Members’ Bills are largely symbolic and major ethical issues get little serious debate.
Evidence: Only 8/163 PMBs passed in 2016–17; the Carer’s Leave Act (2023) was an exception. The Assisted Dying Bill (2024) was criticised by Shabana Mahmood for insufficient time. Ping-pong over the Safety of Rwanda Bill (2024) shows limited Lords influence despite Parliament Acts.