british constitution

• What is a benefit of an uncodified constitution?

  Increased scrutiny limits powers of individuals
• How does flexibility serve as an advantage of an uncodified constitution?

  It allows the legislature to scrutinise the work of the executive to ensure proper conduct
• What problem can arise from the increased scrutiny in an uncodified constitution?

  It can result in tension and conflict due to overlap between branches
• What can conflict between different branches of the British political system lead to?

  Disputes or the slowing down of the function of government
• Who summons the Commons to attend the speech in the House of Lords?

  Black Rod
• Who are the frontbench MPs?

  Members of cabinet/executive including the prime minister
• What is the role of backbench MPs?

  MPs from the government’s party who hold junior or no other position in government
• What is the role of the Commons Speaker?

  To maintain order during debate and punish members who break the rules
• What is the Official Opposition in Westminster?

  The second largest party in Westminster, with a leader chosen by the party
• What is the role of party whips?

  To ensure party discipline in a legislature
• What occurs during the State Opening of Parliament?

  • Monarch travels from Buckingham Palace to Palace of Westminster
  • Leads Royal Procession to Lords Chamber
  • Black Rod is sent to summon MPs
  • Door of Commons is shut in Black Rod’s face
  • Black Rod knocks three times
  • Door to Commons is opened, MPs follow Black Rod to Lord’s Chamber
• What does the Monarch's Speech outline?

  What the government intends to do in the following year
• Who writes the Monarch's Speech?

  It is written by the government
• What happens after the Monarch's Speech is delivered?

  Both the House of Lords and Commons debate the speech and agree on an 'Address in Reply'
• What is the Budget Speech delivered by?

  The Chancellor of the Exchequer
• What does the Budget Speech include?


  Plans for tax and finance, including Budget Resolutions
• What must happen to income and corporation tax according to law?

  They have to be renewed annually
• What happens after the Budget Resolutions are debated?

  A new finance bill is introduced into Commons
• Who scrutinises the finance bill after it is introduced?

  The Treasury Select Committee
• What is required from the government after the Treasury Select Committee reports?

  The government has to respond in 60 days
• What are the roles of experts in government policy creation?

  • Advise on policy
  • Likely to be impartial
  • Appointed
• What are the roles of elected officials in government policy creation?

  • Create policy
  • Likely not experts
  • Political (biased)