Legitimation

• What was the primary job of Parliament when it was created?

  To consent to the monarch's plan
• How does Parliament legitimise the decisions of the monarch?

  By consenting to the monarch's plan
• What process does legislation undergo in Parliament?

  It is debated, scrutinised, and voted upon
• Why can the government claim legitimacy after legislation is passed?

  Because the legislation has been debated and voted upon in Parliament
• What is the effect of a government majority on legislation in Parliament?

  Most legislation proposed gets through, meaning Parliament largely rubber stamps decisions
• What is the purpose of secondary legislation?

  To improve the efficiency of government
• What criticism can be made about secondary legislation?

  It can be argued that the spirit of these is often ignored, bypassing proper scrutiny
• Why can't the House of Lords claim legitimacy?

  Because they are unelected
• What are the key functions of Parliament regarding legislation?

  • Consent to the monarch's plan
  • Debate and scrutinise proposed legislation
  • Vote on legislation
  • Claim legitimacy for government decisions
• What are the implications of a government majority in Parliament?

  • Most legislation passes easily
  • Parliament often rubber stamps decisions
  • Reduced scrutiny of proposed laws
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of secondary legislation?

  Strengths:

  • Aims to improve government efficiency

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Often ignores the spirit of the law
  • Bypasses proper scrutiny