Methods of PGs

• Targeting the government

  Pressure groups hire lobbyists who help them gain access to the executive branch of government, sometimes ministers directly.

  Contact between pressure groups and government representatives is a constant process - once a group has been asked for advice, it is likely they will be asked again (National Farmers Union and other insider groups)

  Group spokespersons may serve on a select committee
• Lobbying

  Groups can lobby MPs and they used to lobby MEPs (Members of European parliament. They could directly influence public policy - backbenchers are likely to help influence policy more since Thatcher and Blair

  There has been increased lobbying in the House of Lords as their reputation has increased since 1999 and the Lords have more power and grow more assertive due to their increase in legitimacy
• Appealing to the public

  Groups may try to implement background campaigns to create a favourable impression of their cause - influence the public who will vote in the next election to vote for a party that supports their cause

  This is growing to be more effective than it used to be as generally people trust pressure groups more than parties

  Generating public awareness also causes parties to pay more attention to an issue, particularly a government near an election as it may help shape the next election
• Judicial route

  Courts are another focus for lobbyists as they can prevent legislation from being passed

  Bringing test cases to court to secure the rights of their members is important and legal expertise can often help

  The Countryside Alliance delayed the implementation of the 2004 Hunting Act due to the ECHR
• Direct Action

  Any action beyond the constitutional and legal framework, obstructing access to a building or the building of a motorway, etc.

  Most direct action is unsuccessful as they are seen as a nuisance and if the government gives in, it could become a norm for groups to get what they want
• Research and publish reports

  Research can provide evidence to support a group's argument and can be used to inform politicians and raise public awareness of the cause
• Civil disobedience

  Some groups may still use illegal methods to cause disruption and bring attention to their cause
• Celebrity spokesperson

  Can increase media coverage of a group and spread awareness of their cause by sharing in the popularity of the celebrity
• Digital campaigns

  Websites, online petitions, and social media

  Help education but ultimately only results in slacktivism