parliamentary law making

• Parliamentary influences on Parliament include political influence, public opinion, pressure groups, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, lobbyists, and the media
• Before a general election, political parties publish a list of reforms they would carry out if elected, known as a manifesto
• At the opening of each session of parliament, the government announces its plan for new laws in the Queen's speech
• Lobbying is used by pressure groups to highlight their concerns, often done by professionals on behalf of businesses and charities
• Lobbyists may persuade MPs to ask questions in the House of Commons or promote a bill on the issue that concerns the lobbyist
• In the UK, a key principle in democracy is that laws should be made by the elected representatives of society, which includes the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and the Crown
• Advantages of pressure groups include representing public opinion and raising important issues, while disadvantages include conflicting views and potential manipulation
• Advantages of political parties having reform proposals ready include knowing what they and the electorate wish to do, and having a majority in the House of Commons to pass laws
• Disadvantages of political parties having reform proposals ready include potential repeal or alteration by a different party, restrictions with a small majority, and compromises in a coalition government
• The House of Lords is a non-elected body, reviewed in 1999 to consist of nominated and elected members
• Members of the House of Commons are elected by the electorate through constituencies, with a general election every 5 years and by-elections in case of MP's death or retirement
• The government of the day is formed by the political party with a majority in the House of Commons, having the main say in formulating new acts of parliament
• Advantages of lobbyists include bringing issues to the government's attention and presenting ideas professionally, while disadvantages include potential abuse of process
• Strong public opinion can influence the government, especially towards the end of a term, and the media plays a significant role in bringing public opinion to the government's attention