Functions

• What are political parties?

  Groups of people with similar beliefs (an ideology)
• How can political parties be split on issues?

  They can have differing views on specific topics, like the Conservative Party's stance on Europe
• What is an example of a party defined by a single issue?

  UKIP, focused on securing an in-out referendum on EU membership
• Which parties operate only in specific areas of the UK?

  The SNP operates only in Scotland and Plaid Cymru operates only in Wales
• What are the five main functions of political parties?

  1. Representation: Represent views and beliefs of society
  2. Participation: Allow individuals to express views
  3. Elections: Offer choice in elections
  4. Government: Hold government to account and form a government
  5. Education: Educate and inform the public
• What is the role of political parties in elections?

  They offer the electorate choice in elections
• How do political parties hold the government to account?

  By forming a government with similar views and challenging policies
• What is a feature of political parties regarding candidates?

  They put candidates up for election
• What does it mean for a party to have formal membership?

  It indicates that the party is organized and has a structured membership
• What do political parties aim to address?

  A variety of issues and government policy
• What characterizes left-wing parties?

  They desire to bring about change and make society more equal
• What is the largest left-wing party in the UK?

  The Labour Party
• What do right-wing parties favor?

  Stability and believe that change is unnecessary
• What is the largest right-wing party in the UK?

  The Conservative Party
• What issues do right-wing parties typically focus on?

  Low taxes and free market economics
• do political parties threatens or enhance democracy