functions of PGs

• representation - represent and promote interests of those who do not feel properly represented by Parliament
• representation - promote certain causes not adequately addressed by political parties
• representation - pass information to government to inform and influence policy, e.g. CBI through surveys
• accountability/scrutiny - not elected so cannot be held accountable, need to be transparent
• accountability/scrutiny - protect minority's interests
• accountability/scrutiny - promote causes that have not been properly addressed by political parties
• accountability/scrutiny - call government to account
• accountability/scrutiny - help ensure government is not too powerful, e.g. State of Nature Report
• legitimisation - inform and educate public
• legitimisation - pass info to government
• legitimisation - presents opportunities to participate in politics
• legitimisation - ensure active and informed citizens
• accountability/scrutiny - e.g. IEA's influence on government smoking ban is concerning as BAT is a key donor
• education - red bus campaign, 300 million from NHS after Brexit
• education - not always transparent -> dark money
• education - their influence can be ephmereal, clicktisim
• representation - emergence of new groups improve pluralism
• education - increase participation e.g. change.org
• education - there has been a rise in pressure groups over the last 30-40 years, putting pressure on political parties to respond
• accountability/scrutiny - Goodlaw project scrutinise government policies like awarding PPE contracts under Covid