Role and Significance of the Opposition

• Roles

  • To force the gov to explain and justify itself
  • To highlight shortcomings in the gov's governing
  • To present alternative proposals
  • To make itself ready to be an alternative gov
• How do they fulfil this

  1. On questions to ministers days: every minister takes their turn to appear on the floor to face questions (verbal and written from members)
  2. In departmental select committees or Public accounts committee: ministers are subject to questioning about their department
  3. PMQs: takes place weekly and is largely ritualised. - PM also appears before a liaison committee twice a year