SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 44
Download to read offline
BritishBritish
Parliament & DemocracyParliament & Democracy
An IntroductionAn Introduction
Full title of nation state:Full title of nation state:
 MonarchMonarch
 ExecutiveExecutive
 LegislatureLegislature
 JudiciaryJudiciary
Electoral systemsElectoral systems
 Political partiesPolitical parties
 Local governmentLocal government
 European UnionEuropean Union
The United Kingdom ofThe United Kingdom of
Great Britain andGreat Britain and
Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland
 MonarchMonarch
• A nation’s politics is shaped by status: -A nation’s politics is shaped by status: -
The UK is a constitutional monarchyThe UK is a constitutional monarchy
Head of stateHead of state
HM Queen Elizabeth IIHM Queen Elizabeth II
Prime MinisterPrime MinisterMonarchMonarch
Head of governmentHead of government
Rt. Hon. David Cameron MPRt. Hon. David Cameron MP
 Executive -Executive -
• ScotlandScotland
• Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland
• (Ulster)(Ulster)
• WalesWales
Authority given to…Authority given to…
UKUK
(incl. England)(incl. England)
Devolved authority given to…Devolved authority given to…
former British Prime Ministersformer British Prime Ministers
KnightKnight
Winston ChurchillWinston Churchill
In office: 1940 – 1945In office: 1940 – 1945
1951 – 19551951 – 1955
BaronessBaroness
Margaret ThatcherMargaret Thatcher
In office: 1979 - 1990In office: 1979 - 1990
History – Leaders of GovernmentHistory – Leaders of Government Executive -Executive -
former British Prime Ministersformer British Prime Ministers
• Tony BlairTony Blair
• In office: 1997 – 2007In office: 1997 – 2007
Gordon BrownGordon Brown
In office: 2007 - 2010In office: 2007 - 2010
History – Leaders of GovernmentHistory – Leaders of Government Executive -Executive -
David Cameron MPDavid Cameron MP
 Executive -Executive -
current British Prime Ministercurrent British Prime Minister
 Related to Queen Elizabeth IIRelated to Queen Elizabeth II
 Married toMarried to Viscountess AstorViscountess Astor
 Eton College & BrasenoseEton College & Brasenose
College, Oxford UniversityCollege, Oxford University
PPEPPE
 Legislature -Legislature -Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given
to…to…
UKUK
(incl. England)(incl. England)
Houses of ParliamentHouses of Parliament
LondonLondon
Houses of ParliamentHouses of Parliament
• House of CommonsHouse of Commons House of LordsHouse of Lords
There are two legislative chambers…There are two legislative chambers…
History of UK ParliamentHistory of UK Parliament
Parliament is old – it has been around inParliament is old – it has been around in
some form for nearly eight hundred years.some form for nearly eight hundred years.
Parliament is a place to debate about howParliament is a place to debate about how
to run the country and pass laws to maketo run the country and pass laws to make
it better.it better.
Parliament is the heart of BritishParliament is the heart of British
democracy.democracy.
History of ParliamentHistory of Parliament
 1348 - St. Stephen's Chapel1348 - St. Stephen's Chapel
 1512 - Palace of1512 - Palace of
WestminsterWestminster
 1605 - Gunpowder Plot1605 - Gunpowder Plot
 1689 - Rules of the monarch1689 - Rules of the monarch
 1707 - England & Scotland1707 - England & Scotland
uniteunite
 1720 - First Prime Minister1720 - First Prime Minister
1834 - Fire!
1840 - Charles Barry, architect
History of ParliamentHistory of Parliament
1918 - Women get the vote
1919 - First woman MP
1921 - Southern Ireland gains independence
1969 - Voting age now 18 and over
1989 - Television
1999 - New parliaments for three countries
2009 - Highest legal court moves out of Parliament
More information available @ www.parliament.uk
The 20th Century onwards...
House of CommonsHouse of Commons
 There are 650 Members ofThere are 650 Members of
Parliament (MPs) who representParliament (MPs) who represent
different parts of the UKdifferent parts of the UK
 British democracy is aBritish democracy is a
‘Representative Democracy’ so‘Representative Democracy’ so
MPs are elected to makeMPs are elected to make
decisions on their constituents’decisions on their constituents’
behalf.behalf.
 Most spend half the week in theMost spend half the week in the
area they represent and half inarea they represent and half in
Parliament.Parliament.
 Usually, the party with the mostUsually, the party with the most
seats in the House of Commonsseats in the House of Commons
forms the government.forms the government.
 Debate in the House ofDebate in the House of
Commons tends to be very lively.Commons tends to be very lively.
House of LordsHouse of Lords
 The House of Lords isThe House of Lords is
Parliament’s secondParliament’s second
chamber. It is made up ofchamber. It is made up of
unelected ‘Peers’.unelected ‘Peers’.
 Peers have either beenPeers have either been
appointed by the Queen orappointed by the Queen or
have inherited the positions.have inherited the positions.
 The Lords carries out theThe Lords carries out the
same legislative role as thesame legislative role as the
House of Commons.House of Commons.
 Debate in the Lords thoughDebate in the Lords though
tends to be very more politetends to be very more polite
and often less exciting thanand often less exciting than
the House of Commons.the House of Commons.
 LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given
to…to…
ScotlandScotland Scottish ParliamentScottish Parliament
EdinburghEdinburgh
 LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given
to…to…
WalesWales Welsh National AssemblyWelsh National Assembly
CardiffCardiff
 LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given
to…to…
Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland Northern Ireland AssemblyNorthern Ireland Assembly
BelfastBelfast
Stormont CastleStormont Castle
• INSTEADINSTEAD
• constitution created from…constitution created from…
No Bill of RightsNo Bill of Rights
– unstructured system– unstructured system
 Legislature -Legislature -
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
ConstitutionConstitution
 Legislature -Legislature -
LAW + CASE LAW + COMMONLAW + CASE LAW + COMMON
LAWLAW
Passed byPassed by
GovernmentGovernment
In London,In London,
Belfast,Belfast,
Cardiff,Cardiff,
EdinburghEdinburgh
JudgementsJudgements
reached inreached in
past legalpast legal
casescases
DevelopedDeveloped
from customsfrom customs
and decisionsand decisions
of judgesof judges
 Judiciary -Judiciary -
• In the United Kingdom…In the United Kingdom…
• 3 separate legal systems covering…3 separate legal systems covering…
• England & WalesEngland & Wales
• Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland
• ScotlandScotland
Separate andSeparate and
independent from theindependent from the
Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature
 Judiciary -Judiciary -
• Highest Court in the United Kingdom…Highest Court in the United Kingdom…
• Supreme Court –Supreme Court –
• created in October 2009created in October 2009
• EXCEPTEXCEPT for criminal cases in Scotland –for criminal cases in Scotland –
• High Court of Justiciary -High Court of Justiciary -
Separate andSeparate and
independent from theindependent from the
Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature
 Judiciary -Judiciary -
• EXCEPTEXCEPT for certain civil cases in the UK andfor certain civil cases in the UK and
from Commonwealth countries -from Commonwealth countries -
Separate andSeparate and
independent from theindependent from the
Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature
Examples: Regulates UniversityExamples: Regulates University
constitutions and those of professionalconstitutions and those of professional
bodies. Other historical activities.bodies. Other historical activities.
The Privy CouncilThe Privy Council
• Court of Appeal -Court of Appeal - LondonLondon
• High Court of Justice -High Court of Justice - LondonLondon
• Crown Courts –Crown Courts –
• exampleexample Oxford Crown CourtOxford Crown Court
• Magistrates’ CourtsMagistrates’ Courts
• exampleexample Banbury Magistrates’ CourtBanbury Magistrates’ Court
CriminalCriminal courtscourts Judiciary -Judiciary -
• Court of Appeal -Court of Appeal - LondonLondon
• High Court of Justice -High Court of Justice - LondonLondon
• County Courts –County Courts – exampleexample
OxfordshireOxfordshire
• County CourtCounty Court
CivilCivil courtscourts Judiciary -Judiciary -
Inside a typical criminal court -Inside a typical criminal court -
Harrogate Magistrates CourtHarrogate Magistrates Court
UK – Multi-party systemUK – Multi-party system
History –History –
Conservative or Labour Parties in power inConservative or Labour Parties in power in
previous 100 years.previous 100 years.
Occasionally - coalition of political parties,Occasionally - coalition of political parties,
or parliament with no overall politicalor parliament with no overall political
control existscontrol exists (minority government)(minority government)..
Coalition government – May 2010Coalition government – May 2010
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
History – In Scotland & Wales…History – In Scotland & Wales…
Increasing support for ‘patriotic’ politicalIncreasing support for ‘patriotic’ political
parties lead to devolved powers in theparties lead to devolved powers in the
1990s.1990s.
Example areas of powers… Education,Example areas of powers… Education,
HealthHealth
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
History – In Northern Ireland…History – In Northern Ireland…
political parties split between:political parties split between:
 Sinn FSinn Féinéin
Social Democratic & LabourSocial Democratic & Labour
PartyParty
–– both want a united island ofboth want a united island of
IrelandIreland
Ulster & Democratic UnionistUlster & Democratic Unionist
PartiesParties
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
–– want to continue beingwant to continue being
part of the United Kingdompart of the United Kingdom
UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons –
UK national elections, called ‘GeneralUK national elections, called ‘General
Elections’, must be held every 5 years orElections’, must be held every 5 years or
earlier.earlier.
Fixed-term parliament. Prime MinisterFixed-term parliament. Prime Minister
makes a request to dissolve Parliament tomakes a request to dissolve Parliament to
the Head of State.the Head of State.
Next General Election must be called on aNext General Election must be called on a
date not later than Thursday 7date not later than Thursday 7thth
May 2015.May 2015.
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons –
 Held to electHeld to elect 650 Members of Parliament
(MPs).
 Represent the views of their area
(constituency) and work on their behalf in the
House of Commons.
 All citizens over 18 can vote (plans to reduce
age to 16) EXCEPT for prisoners serving 12
months or more.
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons –
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
Held normally onHeld normally on
ThursdaysThursdays.
Polling stations, where
you vote, are often
village halls and
primary schools.
Open from 7.00am
until 10.00pm
The Right to VoteThe Right to Vote
• Registration cardRegistration card
Secret ballot papers
Final departures at No. 10 Downing StreetFinal departures at No. 10 Downing Street
Gordon & Sarah Brown,Gordon & Sarah Brown,
their children John &their children John &
James, and DowningJames, and Downing
Street staffStreet staff
Signing a final letter toSigning a final letter to
the new Prime Minister –the new Prime Minister –
with Douglas Alexanderwith Douglas Alexander
Alistair Campbell andAlistair Campbell and
Ed BallsEd Balls
Buckingham Palace, LondonBuckingham Palace, London
• Welcoming newWelcoming new
• First MinisterFirst Minister
• David CameronDavid Cameron
Saying good bye toSaying good bye to
First MinisterFirst Minister
Gordon BrownGordon Brown
New arrivals at No.10 Downing StreetNew arrivals at No.10 Downing Street
David Cameron &David Cameron &
his then pregnanthis then pregnant
wife, Samanthawife, Samantha
Prime Minister -Prime Minister -
David Cameron &David Cameron &
Deputy Prime Minister -Deputy Prime Minister -
Nick CleggNick Clegg
• Other countries using the ‘Westminster system’Other countries using the ‘Westminster system’
of government include…of government include…
• Australia, Canada, India, Jamaica, Malaysia,Australia, Canada, India, Jamaica, Malaysia,
New Zealand, Singapore –New Zealand, Singapore – (all countries of the(all countries of the
British Commonwealth; a group of nations having aBritish Commonwealth; a group of nations having a
shared history with Britain)shared history with Britain)
 Electoral System -Electoral System -
• ConservativeConservative
• LabourLabour
• Liberal DemocratLiberal Democrat
Main PoliticalMain Political
GroupsGroups
 Political Parties -Political Parties -
Ed Milliband MPEd Milliband MP
 Political Parties -Political Parties -
Leader of the Opposition
 Leader of the Labour Party
 MP for Doncaster North
 Two children with partner –
Cambridge-educated lawyer
 Corpus Christi College - Oxford
University – BA PPE
 London School of Economics
Nick Clegg MP
 Dutch-Russian-Japanese-
British heritage
 Married to a Spaniard
 Cambridge University,
University of Minnesota
College of Europe
 Former Member of the
European Parliament
 Political Parties -Political Parties -
Party leader
• Green PartyGreen Party
• UK Independence PartyUK Independence Party
• The Jury PartyThe Jury Party
• British National PartyBritish National Party
other Politicalother Political
GroupsGroups
 Political Parties -Political Parties -
• County and Metropolitan CouncilsCounty and Metropolitan Councils
• Oxfordshire County CouncilOxfordshire County Council
• Greater London AuthorityGreater London Authority
• City and District CouncilsCity and District Councils
• Oxford City CouncilOxford City Council
• Cherwell DistrictCherwell District
• South Oxfordshire DistrictSouth Oxfordshire District
• Vale of White Horse DistrictVale of White Horse District
• West Oxfordshire DistrictWest Oxfordshire District
Parish and TownParish and Town
CouncilsCouncils
KidlingtonKidlington
 Local Government –Local Government –
elections every 3 yearselections every 3 years
and Woodstockand Woodstock
 European Union -European Union -
27 Member nation states27 Member nation states
As a member…As a member…
The United Kingdom…The United Kingdom…
Elects 78 Members of the European Parliament…Elects 78 Members of the European Parliament…
 European Union -European Union -
The UK Parliament responsible for…The UK Parliament responsible for…
Checking EU draft laws and other documentsChecking EU draft laws and other documents
Adjusting UK law to comply with EU laws & treatiesAdjusting UK law to comply with EU laws & treaties
Auditing or checking UK Government complies withAuditing or checking UK Government complies with
EU policies & its views with various EU institutionsEU policies & its views with various EU institutions
 European Union -European Union -
The EUThe EU
CANNOT CHANGECANNOT CHANGE
LAWLAW
in thein the
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
But…But…
The UK Parliament may have to pass new laws orThe UK Parliament may have to pass new laws or
amend existing ones to comply with EU legislationamend existing ones to comply with EU legislation
Produced for www.englishabc.co.uk by Laurence Todd
Thank you for listening and taking part!
BritishBritish
Parliament & DemocracyParliament & Democracy

More Related Content

What's hot

The system of government in Great Britain
The system of government in Great BritainThe system of government in Great Britain
The system of government in Great BritainYevgeniya Grigoryeva
 
Political system of Uk
Political system of UkPolitical system of Uk
Political system of UkRaja Haider
 
The united kingdom parliament
The united kingdom parliamentThe united kingdom parliament
The united kingdom parliamenttulgaa14
 
Politics of the United Kingdom
Politics of the United KingdomPolitics of the United Kingdom
Politics of the United KingdomFakhriAhmadMaulana
 
English Government
English GovernmentEnglish Government
English GovernmentGodamdewa
 
Elections And Politics In The Uk
Elections And Politics In The UkElections And Politics In The Uk
Elections And Politics In The UkAnn Michaelsen
 
British institutions
British institutions British institutions
British institutions Elhem Chniti
 
The Political System of the USA
The Political System of the USAThe Political System of the USA
The Political System of the USAIrene_Ermolova
 
Monachy and goverment in britain
Monachy and goverment in britainMonachy and goverment in britain
Monachy and goverment in britainNàng Tiện
 
United Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United Kingdombrianbelen
 
British political system
British political systemBritish political system
British political systemAykut Bucalı
 
US President election and political institution
US President election and political institutionUS President election and political institution
US President election and political institutionSơn Sơn
 
1 uk political system
1 uk political system1 uk political system
1 uk political systemmrmarr
 
the US (United States) : Comparative Political Systems
the US (United States)  : Comparative Political Systemsthe US (United States)  : Comparative Political Systems
the US (United States) : Comparative Political SystemsPreechaya Kittipaisalsilpa
 

What's hot (20)

British Government
British GovernmentBritish Government
British Government
 
The system of government in Great Britain
The system of government in Great BritainThe system of government in Great Britain
The system of government in Great Britain
 
Political system of Uk
Political system of UkPolitical system of Uk
Political system of Uk
 
Uk political system
Uk political systemUk political system
Uk political system
 
The united kingdom parliament
The united kingdom parliamentThe united kingdom parliament
The united kingdom parliament
 
Uk politics1
Uk politics1Uk politics1
Uk politics1
 
British Government
British GovernmentBritish Government
British Government
 
Politics of the United Kingdom
Politics of the United KingdomPolitics of the United Kingdom
Politics of the United Kingdom
 
English Government
English GovernmentEnglish Government
English Government
 
Elections And Politics In The Uk
Elections And Politics In The UkElections And Politics In The Uk
Elections And Politics In The Uk
 
British institutions
British institutions British institutions
British institutions
 
Chapter 3 Politics in the UK
Chapter 3 Politics in the UKChapter 3 Politics in the UK
Chapter 3 Politics in the UK
 
The Political System of the USA
The Political System of the USAThe Political System of the USA
The Political System of the USA
 
Uk parliament
Uk parliamentUk parliament
Uk parliament
 
Monachy and goverment in britain
Monachy and goverment in britainMonachy and goverment in britain
Monachy and goverment in britain
 
United Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United Kingdom
 
British political system
British political systemBritish political system
British political system
 
US President election and political institution
US President election and political institutionUS President election and political institution
US President election and political institution
 
1 uk political system
1 uk political system1 uk political system
1 uk political system
 
the US (United States) : Comparative Political Systems
the US (United States)  : Comparative Political Systemsthe US (United States)  : Comparative Political Systems
the US (United States) : Comparative Political Systems
 

Viewers also liked

Palace of Westminster, House of Parliament
Palace of Westminster, House of ParliamentPalace of Westminster, House of Parliament
Palace of Westminster, House of ParliamentJerry Daperro
 
The british government presentation
The british government presentationThe british government presentation
The british government presentationMargit Külaots
 
House of Commons and Lords
House of Commons and LordsHouse of Commons and Lords
House of Commons and Lordsmadrob1
 
The house of lords – functions
The house of lords – functionsThe house of lords – functions
The house of lords – functionsaquinaspolitics
 
Political system of great britain
Political system of great britainPolitical system of great britain
Political system of great britainguest341e796
 
The house of lords presentation final
The house of lords presentation finalThe house of lords presentation final
The house of lords presentation finalmarjemaasen
 
House of Lords Explained
House of Lords ExplainedHouse of Lords Explained
House of Lords ExplainedAmjad Ali
 
Education system in the UK
Education system in the UKEducation system in the UK
Education system in the UKjulia_martinez
 
Educational System in UK
Educational System in UKEducational System in UK
Educational System in UKKadelle Pidor
 
The uk education system
The uk education systemThe uk education system
The uk education systemsigugi
 
British culture,customs and traditions
British culture,customs and traditionsBritish culture,customs and traditions
British culture,customs and traditionsSaloniB
 
British culture
British cultureBritish culture
British cultureolszewa
 

Viewers also liked (19)

British Parliament
British ParliamentBritish Parliament
British Parliament
 
Palace of Westminster, House of Parliament
Palace of Westminster, House of ParliamentPalace of Westminster, House of Parliament
Palace of Westminster, House of Parliament
 
The british government presentation
The british government presentationThe british government presentation
The british government presentation
 
House of Commons and Lords
House of Commons and LordsHouse of Commons and Lords
House of Commons and Lords
 
House of parliament
House of parliamentHouse of parliament
House of parliament
 
The house of lords – functions
The house of lords – functionsThe house of lords – functions
The house of lords – functions
 
Political system of great britain
Political system of great britainPolitical system of great britain
Political system of great britain
 
House of Lords
House of LordsHouse of Lords
House of Lords
 
PowerPoint 2
PowerPoint 2PowerPoint 2
PowerPoint 2
 
The house of lords presentation final
The house of lords presentation finalThe house of lords presentation final
The house of lords presentation final
 
House of Lords Explained
House of Lords ExplainedHouse of Lords Explained
House of Lords Explained
 
The House of Commons
The House of CommonsThe House of Commons
The House of Commons
 
Education system in the UK
Education system in the UKEducation system in the UK
Education system in the UK
 
Educational System in UK
Educational System in UKEducational System in UK
Educational System in UK
 
United kingdom
United kingdomUnited kingdom
United kingdom
 
The uk education system
The uk education systemThe uk education system
The uk education system
 
Uk Power Point
Uk Power PointUk Power Point
Uk Power Point
 
British culture,customs and traditions
British culture,customs and traditionsBritish culture,customs and traditions
British culture,customs and traditions
 
British culture
British cultureBritish culture
British culture
 

Similar to British Democracy & Parliament - how the United Kingdom is governed

FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptx
FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptxFORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptx
FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptxSwapnilPal18
 
The government system in united kingdom
The government system in united kingdomThe government system in united kingdom
The government system in united kingdomRina Dewi
 
Government and politics of great britain
Government and politics of great britainGovernment and politics of great britain
Government and politics of great britainFelmar Agunos
 
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 20181st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018Elhem Chniti
 
Constution great britain
Constution great britainConstution great britain
Constution great britainTrinh Rose
 
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitution
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitutionEhsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitution
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitutionEhsan kabir Solicitor
 
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3 British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3 IhssanBenbouhia
 
1st year lecture 2 british institutions final
1st year lecture 2 british institutions final1st year lecture 2 british institutions final
1st year lecture 2 british institutions finalElhem Chniti
 
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions 1st year lecture 2016 british institutions
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions Elhem Chniti
 
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)The King Bill Of Rights (1689)
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)Jessica Oatis
 
Azerbaijan and britain political system
Azerbaijan  and  britain political systemAzerbaijan  and  britain political system
Azerbaijan and britain political systemSimurqTv
 
The history and political system of the United Kingdom
The history and political system of the United KingdomThe history and political system of the United Kingdom
The history and political system of the United KingdomKarine Grigoryan
 
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament Essay
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament EssayDevolution And The Scottish Parliament Essay
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament EssayOlga Bautista
 
British institutions
British institutionsBritish institutions
British institutionsElhem Chniti
 
Everything you need to know about Parliament
Everything you need to know about ParliamentEverything you need to know about Parliament
Everything you need to know about ParliamentMatthew Bentley
 

Similar to British Democracy & Parliament - how the United Kingdom is governed (20)

Great britain ppt
Great britain pptGreat britain ppt
Great britain ppt
 
FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptx
FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptxFORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptx
FORM OF GOVERNMENT IN U.K..pptx
 
The government system in united kingdom
The government system in united kingdomThe government system in united kingdom
The government system in united kingdom
 
Government and politics of great britain
Government and politics of great britainGovernment and politics of great britain
Government and politics of great britain
 
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 20181st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018
1st year lecture 2 british institutions 2018
 
Constution great britain
Constution great britainConstution great britain
Constution great britain
 
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitution
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitutionEhsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitution
Ehsan Kabir | The United Kingdom constitution
 
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3 British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3
British Culture - British Political System - English Studies S3
 
1st year lecture 2 british institutions final
1st year lecture 2 british institutions final1st year lecture 2 british institutions final
1st year lecture 2 british institutions final
 
UK Government 1
UK Government 1UK Government 1
UK Government 1
 
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions 1st year lecture 2016 british institutions
1st year lecture 2016 british institutions
 
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)The King Bill Of Rights (1689)
The King Bill Of Rights (1689)
 
Azerbaijan and britain political system
Azerbaijan  and  britain political systemAzerbaijan  and  britain political system
Azerbaijan and britain political system
 
Politics Uk
Politics UkPolitics Uk
Politics Uk
 
British Government(Final)
British Government(Final)British Government(Final)
British Government(Final)
 
Reading activity
Reading  activityReading  activity
Reading activity
 
The history and political system of the United Kingdom
The history and political system of the United KingdomThe history and political system of the United Kingdom
The history and political system of the United Kingdom
 
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament Essay
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament EssayDevolution And The Scottish Parliament Essay
Devolution And The Scottish Parliament Essay
 
British institutions
British institutionsBritish institutions
British institutions
 
Everything you need to know about Parliament
Everything you need to know about ParliamentEverything you need to know about Parliament
Everything you need to know about Parliament
 

More from Laurence T

Reading questions analysing language yr11
Reading questions analysing language yr11Reading questions analysing language yr11
Reading questions analysing language yr11Laurence T
 
Poetry: How to write a limerick
Poetry: How to write a limerickPoetry: How to write a limerick
Poetry: How to write a limerickLaurence T
 
Plenary Activity Reflection Time
Plenary Activity Reflection Time Plenary Activity Reflection Time
Plenary Activity Reflection Time Laurence T
 
Macbeth PEE writing assessment
Macbeth PEE writing assessmentMacbeth PEE writing assessment
Macbeth PEE writing assessmentLaurence T
 
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopier
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopierCopyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopier
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopierLaurence T
 
Why study Shakespeare?
Why study Shakespeare?Why study Shakespeare?
Why study Shakespeare?Laurence T
 
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low ability
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low abilityMacbeth - The Two Truths - low ability
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low abilityLaurence T
 
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1Laurence T
 
Macbeth: Scottish locations
Macbeth: Scottish locationsMacbeth: Scottish locations
Macbeth: Scottish locationsLaurence T
 
Senior teacher role presentation
Senior teacher role presentationSenior teacher role presentation
Senior teacher role presentationLaurence T
 

More from Laurence T (10)

Reading questions analysing language yr11
Reading questions analysing language yr11Reading questions analysing language yr11
Reading questions analysing language yr11
 
Poetry: How to write a limerick
Poetry: How to write a limerickPoetry: How to write a limerick
Poetry: How to write a limerick
 
Plenary Activity Reflection Time
Plenary Activity Reflection Time Plenary Activity Reflection Time
Plenary Activity Reflection Time
 
Macbeth PEE writing assessment
Macbeth PEE writing assessmentMacbeth PEE writing assessment
Macbeth PEE writing assessment
 
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopier
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopierCopyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopier
Copyright Fair Use Poster - for the photocopier
 
Why study Shakespeare?
Why study Shakespeare?Why study Shakespeare?
Why study Shakespeare?
 
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low ability
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low abilityMacbeth - The Two Truths - low ability
Macbeth - The Two Truths - low ability
 
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1
Lady Macbeth Soliloquy Part 1
 
Macbeth: Scottish locations
Macbeth: Scottish locationsMacbeth: Scottish locations
Macbeth: Scottish locations
 
Senior teacher role presentation
Senior teacher role presentationSenior teacher role presentation
Senior teacher role presentation
 

Recently uploaded

2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx
2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx
2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptxSandy Millin
 
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRA
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRADUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRA
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRATanmoy Mishra
 
3.21.24 The Origins of Black Power.pptx
3.21.24  The Origins of Black Power.pptx3.21.24  The Origins of Black Power.pptx
3.21.24 The Origins of Black Power.pptxmary850239
 
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdfJayanti Pande
 
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptx
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptxEducation and training program in the hospital APR.pptx
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptxraviapr7
 
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptx
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptxUltra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptx
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptxDr. Asif Anas
 
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using Code
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using CodeHow to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using Code
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using CodeCeline George
 
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdf
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdfP4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdf
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdfYu Kanazawa / Osaka University
 
KARNAADA.pptx made by - saransh dwivedi ( SD ) - SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...
KARNAADA.pptx  made by -  saransh dwivedi ( SD ) -  SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...KARNAADA.pptx  made by -  saransh dwivedi ( SD ) -  SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...
KARNAADA.pptx made by - saransh dwivedi ( SD ) - SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...M56BOOKSTORE PRODUCT/SERVICE
 
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptx
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptxSOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptx
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptxSyedNadeemGillANi
 
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.raviapr7
 
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17Celine George
 
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sasha
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sashaWork Experience for psp3 portfolio sasha
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sashasashalaycock03
 
A gentle introduction to Artificial Intelligence
A gentle introduction to Artificial IntelligenceA gentle introduction to Artificial Intelligence
A gentle introduction to Artificial IntelligenceApostolos Syropoulos
 
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptx
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptxAUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptx
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptxiammrhaywood
 
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptxmary850239
 
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptx
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptxSlides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptx
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptxCapitolTechU
 
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICEQuality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICESayali Powar
 
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 Sales
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 SalesHow to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 Sales
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 SalesCeline George
 
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTDR. SNEHA NAIR
 

Recently uploaded (20)

2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx
2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx
2024.03.23 What do successful readers do - Sandy Millin for PARK.pptx
 
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRA
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRADUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRA
DUST OF SNOW_BY ROBERT FROST_EDITED BY_ TANMOY MISHRA
 
3.21.24 The Origins of Black Power.pptx
3.21.24  The Origins of Black Power.pptx3.21.24  The Origins of Black Power.pptx
3.21.24 The Origins of Black Power.pptx
 
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf
10 Topics For MBA Project Report [HR].pdf
 
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptx
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptxEducation and training program in the hospital APR.pptx
Education and training program in the hospital APR.pptx
 
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptx
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptxUltra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptx
Ultra structure and life cycle of Plasmodium.pptx
 
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using Code
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using CodeHow to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using Code
How to Send Emails From Odoo 17 Using Code
 
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdf
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdfP4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdf
P4C x ELT = P4ELT: Its Theoretical Background (Kanazawa, 2024 March).pdf
 
KARNAADA.pptx made by - saransh dwivedi ( SD ) - SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...
KARNAADA.pptx  made by -  saransh dwivedi ( SD ) -  SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...KARNAADA.pptx  made by -  saransh dwivedi ( SD ) -  SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...
KARNAADA.pptx made by - saransh dwivedi ( SD ) - SHALAKYA TANTRA - ENT - 4...
 
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptx
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptxSOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptx
SOLIDE WASTE in Cameroon,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.pptx
 
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.
Drug Information Services- DIC and Sources.
 
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17
How to Add Existing Field in One2Many Tree View in Odoo 17
 
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sasha
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sashaWork Experience for psp3 portfolio sasha
Work Experience for psp3 portfolio sasha
 
A gentle introduction to Artificial Intelligence
A gentle introduction to Artificial IntelligenceA gentle introduction to Artificial Intelligence
A gentle introduction to Artificial Intelligence
 
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptx
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptxAUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptx
AUDIENCE THEORY -- FANDOM -- JENKINS.pptx
 
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx
3.26.24 Race, the Draft, and the Vietnam War.pptx
 
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptx
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptxSlides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptx
Slides CapTechTalks Webinar March 2024 Joshua Sinai.pptx
 
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICEQuality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE
Quality Assurance_GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE
 
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 Sales
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 SalesHow to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 Sales
How to Manage Cross-Selling in Odoo 17 Sales
 
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT
ARTICULAR DISC OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT
 

British Democracy & Parliament - how the United Kingdom is governed

  • 1. BritishBritish Parliament & DemocracyParliament & Democracy An IntroductionAn Introduction
  • 2. Full title of nation state:Full title of nation state:  MonarchMonarch  ExecutiveExecutive  LegislatureLegislature  JudiciaryJudiciary Electoral systemsElectoral systems  Political partiesPolitical parties  Local governmentLocal government  European UnionEuropean Union The United Kingdom ofThe United Kingdom of Great Britain andGreat Britain and Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland
  • 3.  MonarchMonarch • A nation’s politics is shaped by status: -A nation’s politics is shaped by status: - The UK is a constitutional monarchyThe UK is a constitutional monarchy Head of stateHead of state HM Queen Elizabeth IIHM Queen Elizabeth II Prime MinisterPrime MinisterMonarchMonarch Head of governmentHead of government Rt. Hon. David Cameron MPRt. Hon. David Cameron MP
  • 4.  Executive -Executive - • ScotlandScotland • Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland • (Ulster)(Ulster) • WalesWales Authority given to…Authority given to… UKUK (incl. England)(incl. England) Devolved authority given to…Devolved authority given to…
  • 5. former British Prime Ministersformer British Prime Ministers KnightKnight Winston ChurchillWinston Churchill In office: 1940 – 1945In office: 1940 – 1945 1951 – 19551951 – 1955 BaronessBaroness Margaret ThatcherMargaret Thatcher In office: 1979 - 1990In office: 1979 - 1990 History – Leaders of GovernmentHistory – Leaders of Government Executive -Executive -
  • 6. former British Prime Ministersformer British Prime Ministers • Tony BlairTony Blair • In office: 1997 – 2007In office: 1997 – 2007 Gordon BrownGordon Brown In office: 2007 - 2010In office: 2007 - 2010 History – Leaders of GovernmentHistory – Leaders of Government Executive -Executive -
  • 7. David Cameron MPDavid Cameron MP  Executive -Executive - current British Prime Ministercurrent British Prime Minister  Related to Queen Elizabeth IIRelated to Queen Elizabeth II  Married toMarried to Viscountess AstorViscountess Astor  Eton College & BrasenoseEton College & Brasenose College, Oxford UniversityCollege, Oxford University PPEPPE
  • 8.  Legislature -Legislature -Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given to…to… UKUK (incl. England)(incl. England) Houses of ParliamentHouses of Parliament LondonLondon
  • 9. Houses of ParliamentHouses of Parliament • House of CommonsHouse of Commons House of LordsHouse of Lords There are two legislative chambers…There are two legislative chambers…
  • 10. History of UK ParliamentHistory of UK Parliament Parliament is old – it has been around inParliament is old – it has been around in some form for nearly eight hundred years.some form for nearly eight hundred years. Parliament is a place to debate about howParliament is a place to debate about how to run the country and pass laws to maketo run the country and pass laws to make it better.it better. Parliament is the heart of BritishParliament is the heart of British democracy.democracy.
  • 11. History of ParliamentHistory of Parliament  1348 - St. Stephen's Chapel1348 - St. Stephen's Chapel  1512 - Palace of1512 - Palace of WestminsterWestminster  1605 - Gunpowder Plot1605 - Gunpowder Plot  1689 - Rules of the monarch1689 - Rules of the monarch  1707 - England & Scotland1707 - England & Scotland uniteunite  1720 - First Prime Minister1720 - First Prime Minister 1834 - Fire! 1840 - Charles Barry, architect
  • 12. History of ParliamentHistory of Parliament 1918 - Women get the vote 1919 - First woman MP 1921 - Southern Ireland gains independence 1969 - Voting age now 18 and over 1989 - Television 1999 - New parliaments for three countries 2009 - Highest legal court moves out of Parliament More information available @ www.parliament.uk The 20th Century onwards...
  • 13. House of CommonsHouse of Commons  There are 650 Members ofThere are 650 Members of Parliament (MPs) who representParliament (MPs) who represent different parts of the UKdifferent parts of the UK  British democracy is aBritish democracy is a ‘Representative Democracy’ so‘Representative Democracy’ so MPs are elected to makeMPs are elected to make decisions on their constituents’decisions on their constituents’ behalf.behalf.  Most spend half the week in theMost spend half the week in the area they represent and half inarea they represent and half in Parliament.Parliament.  Usually, the party with the mostUsually, the party with the most seats in the House of Commonsseats in the House of Commons forms the government.forms the government.  Debate in the House ofDebate in the House of Commons tends to be very lively.Commons tends to be very lively.
  • 14. House of LordsHouse of Lords  The House of Lords isThe House of Lords is Parliament’s secondParliament’s second chamber. It is made up ofchamber. It is made up of unelected ‘Peers’.unelected ‘Peers’.  Peers have either beenPeers have either been appointed by the Queen orappointed by the Queen or have inherited the positions.have inherited the positions.  The Lords carries out theThe Lords carries out the same legislative role as thesame legislative role as the House of Commons.House of Commons.  Debate in the Lords thoughDebate in the Lords though tends to be very more politetends to be very more polite and often less exciting thanand often less exciting than the House of Commons.the House of Commons.
  • 15.  LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given to…to… ScotlandScotland Scottish ParliamentScottish Parliament EdinburghEdinburgh
  • 16.  LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given to…to… WalesWales Welsh National AssemblyWelsh National Assembly CardiffCardiff
  • 17.  LegislatureLegislature --Law-making powers givenLaw-making powers given to…to… Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland Northern Ireland AssemblyNorthern Ireland Assembly BelfastBelfast Stormont CastleStormont Castle
  • 18. • INSTEADINSTEAD • constitution created from…constitution created from… No Bill of RightsNo Bill of Rights – unstructured system– unstructured system  Legislature -Legislature - United KingdomUnited Kingdom ConstitutionConstitution
  • 19.  Legislature -Legislature - LAW + CASE LAW + COMMONLAW + CASE LAW + COMMON LAWLAW Passed byPassed by GovernmentGovernment In London,In London, Belfast,Belfast, Cardiff,Cardiff, EdinburghEdinburgh JudgementsJudgements reached inreached in past legalpast legal casescases DevelopedDeveloped from customsfrom customs and decisionsand decisions of judgesof judges
  • 20.  Judiciary -Judiciary - • In the United Kingdom…In the United Kingdom… • 3 separate legal systems covering…3 separate legal systems covering… • England & WalesEngland & Wales • Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland • ScotlandScotland Separate andSeparate and independent from theindependent from the Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature
  • 21.  Judiciary -Judiciary - • Highest Court in the United Kingdom…Highest Court in the United Kingdom… • Supreme Court –Supreme Court – • created in October 2009created in October 2009 • EXCEPTEXCEPT for criminal cases in Scotland –for criminal cases in Scotland – • High Court of Justiciary -High Court of Justiciary - Separate andSeparate and independent from theindependent from the Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature
  • 22.  Judiciary -Judiciary - • EXCEPTEXCEPT for certain civil cases in the UK andfor certain civil cases in the UK and from Commonwealth countries -from Commonwealth countries - Separate andSeparate and independent from theindependent from the Executive and LegislatureExecutive and Legislature Examples: Regulates UniversityExamples: Regulates University constitutions and those of professionalconstitutions and those of professional bodies. Other historical activities.bodies. Other historical activities. The Privy CouncilThe Privy Council
  • 23. • Court of Appeal -Court of Appeal - LondonLondon • High Court of Justice -High Court of Justice - LondonLondon • Crown Courts –Crown Courts – • exampleexample Oxford Crown CourtOxford Crown Court • Magistrates’ CourtsMagistrates’ Courts • exampleexample Banbury Magistrates’ CourtBanbury Magistrates’ Court CriminalCriminal courtscourts Judiciary -Judiciary -
  • 24. • Court of Appeal -Court of Appeal - LondonLondon • High Court of Justice -High Court of Justice - LondonLondon • County Courts –County Courts – exampleexample OxfordshireOxfordshire • County CourtCounty Court CivilCivil courtscourts Judiciary -Judiciary - Inside a typical criminal court -Inside a typical criminal court - Harrogate Magistrates CourtHarrogate Magistrates Court
  • 25. UK – Multi-party systemUK – Multi-party system History –History – Conservative or Labour Parties in power inConservative or Labour Parties in power in previous 100 years.previous 100 years. Occasionally - coalition of political parties,Occasionally - coalition of political parties, or parliament with no overall politicalor parliament with no overall political control existscontrol exists (minority government)(minority government).. Coalition government – May 2010Coalition government – May 2010  Electoral System -Electoral System -
  • 26. History – In Scotland & Wales…History – In Scotland & Wales… Increasing support for ‘patriotic’ politicalIncreasing support for ‘patriotic’ political parties lead to devolved powers in theparties lead to devolved powers in the 1990s.1990s. Example areas of powers… Education,Example areas of powers… Education, HealthHealth  Electoral System -Electoral System -
  • 27. History – In Northern Ireland…History – In Northern Ireland… political parties split between:political parties split between:  Sinn FSinn Féinéin Social Democratic & LabourSocial Democratic & Labour PartyParty –– both want a united island ofboth want a united island of IrelandIreland Ulster & Democratic UnionistUlster & Democratic Unionist PartiesParties  Electoral System -Electoral System - –– want to continue beingwant to continue being part of the United Kingdompart of the United Kingdom
  • 28. UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons – UK national elections, called ‘GeneralUK national elections, called ‘General Elections’, must be held every 5 years orElections’, must be held every 5 years or earlier.earlier. Fixed-term parliament. Prime MinisterFixed-term parliament. Prime Minister makes a request to dissolve Parliament tomakes a request to dissolve Parliament to the Head of State.the Head of State. Next General Election must be called on aNext General Election must be called on a date not later than Thursday 7date not later than Thursday 7thth May 2015.May 2015.  Electoral System -Electoral System -
  • 29. UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons –  Held to electHeld to elect 650 Members of Parliament (MPs).  Represent the views of their area (constituency) and work on their behalf in the House of Commons.  All citizens over 18 can vote (plans to reduce age to 16) EXCEPT for prisoners serving 12 months or more.  Electoral System -Electoral System -
  • 30. UK Elections to the House of Commons –UK Elections to the House of Commons –  Electoral System -Electoral System - Held normally onHeld normally on ThursdaysThursdays. Polling stations, where you vote, are often village halls and primary schools. Open from 7.00am until 10.00pm
  • 31. The Right to VoteThe Right to Vote • Registration cardRegistration card Secret ballot papers
  • 32. Final departures at No. 10 Downing StreetFinal departures at No. 10 Downing Street Gordon & Sarah Brown,Gordon & Sarah Brown, their children John &their children John & James, and DowningJames, and Downing Street staffStreet staff Signing a final letter toSigning a final letter to the new Prime Minister –the new Prime Minister – with Douglas Alexanderwith Douglas Alexander Alistair Campbell andAlistair Campbell and Ed BallsEd Balls
  • 33. Buckingham Palace, LondonBuckingham Palace, London • Welcoming newWelcoming new • First MinisterFirst Minister • David CameronDavid Cameron Saying good bye toSaying good bye to First MinisterFirst Minister Gordon BrownGordon Brown
  • 34. New arrivals at No.10 Downing StreetNew arrivals at No.10 Downing Street David Cameron &David Cameron & his then pregnanthis then pregnant wife, Samanthawife, Samantha Prime Minister -Prime Minister - David Cameron &David Cameron & Deputy Prime Minister -Deputy Prime Minister - Nick CleggNick Clegg
  • 35. • Other countries using the ‘Westminster system’Other countries using the ‘Westminster system’ of government include…of government include… • Australia, Canada, India, Jamaica, Malaysia,Australia, Canada, India, Jamaica, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore –New Zealand, Singapore – (all countries of the(all countries of the British Commonwealth; a group of nations having aBritish Commonwealth; a group of nations having a shared history with Britain)shared history with Britain)  Electoral System -Electoral System -
  • 36. • ConservativeConservative • LabourLabour • Liberal DemocratLiberal Democrat Main PoliticalMain Political GroupsGroups  Political Parties -Political Parties -
  • 37. Ed Milliband MPEd Milliband MP  Political Parties -Political Parties - Leader of the Opposition  Leader of the Labour Party  MP for Doncaster North  Two children with partner – Cambridge-educated lawyer  Corpus Christi College - Oxford University – BA PPE  London School of Economics
  • 38. Nick Clegg MP  Dutch-Russian-Japanese- British heritage  Married to a Spaniard  Cambridge University, University of Minnesota College of Europe  Former Member of the European Parliament  Political Parties -Political Parties - Party leader
  • 39. • Green PartyGreen Party • UK Independence PartyUK Independence Party • The Jury PartyThe Jury Party • British National PartyBritish National Party other Politicalother Political GroupsGroups  Political Parties -Political Parties -
  • 40. • County and Metropolitan CouncilsCounty and Metropolitan Councils • Oxfordshire County CouncilOxfordshire County Council • Greater London AuthorityGreater London Authority • City and District CouncilsCity and District Councils • Oxford City CouncilOxford City Council • Cherwell DistrictCherwell District • South Oxfordshire DistrictSouth Oxfordshire District • Vale of White Horse DistrictVale of White Horse District • West Oxfordshire DistrictWest Oxfordshire District Parish and TownParish and Town CouncilsCouncils KidlingtonKidlington  Local Government –Local Government – elections every 3 yearselections every 3 years and Woodstockand Woodstock
  • 41.  European Union -European Union - 27 Member nation states27 Member nation states As a member…As a member… The United Kingdom…The United Kingdom… Elects 78 Members of the European Parliament…Elects 78 Members of the European Parliament…
  • 42.  European Union -European Union - The UK Parliament responsible for…The UK Parliament responsible for… Checking EU draft laws and other documentsChecking EU draft laws and other documents Adjusting UK law to comply with EU laws & treatiesAdjusting UK law to comply with EU laws & treaties Auditing or checking UK Government complies withAuditing or checking UK Government complies with EU policies & its views with various EU institutionsEU policies & its views with various EU institutions
  • 43.  European Union -European Union - The EUThe EU CANNOT CHANGECANNOT CHANGE LAWLAW in thein the United KingdomUnited Kingdom But…But… The UK Parliament may have to pass new laws orThe UK Parliament may have to pass new laws or amend existing ones to comply with EU legislationamend existing ones to comply with EU legislation
  • 44. Produced for www.englishabc.co.uk by Laurence Todd Thank you for listening and taking part! BritishBritish Parliament & DemocracyParliament & Democracy

Editor's Notes

  1. Welcome to this introductory talk to ‘British parliament and democracy’, a huge subject that is constantly changing, as both politicians and judges respond to the needs of the people of the United Kingdom. I will tell you about the different areas of governance, which form the checks and balances for what is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. I will then turn to the many places where United Kingdom law is created; the Palace of Westminster, London, the other debating chambers of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and the law courts at various levels handling cases of both criminal and civil law. I will then take a brief look at how the general public become involved in the process of democracy, and I will finish with a look at how the European Union, to which the UK is a full member, influences our democracy and law-making across all of our four countries.
  2. The full title of the United Kingdom, something that was only fully achieved in 19.. With the addition of the province of Northern Ireland, reflects both the geographical area, Great Britain including the island of Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), and all the major islands but excluding the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands; and the northern part of the island of Eire, Northern Island. The areas of governance are all inter-related and affected by actions of each other. These can be described as the Monarch, the Executive, the Legislature, the Judiciary or Justice system, the Electoral systems, Political parties, Local government, and the European Union.
  3. As a constitutional monarchy the UK has as its head of state a member of the House of Windsor, the current Royal Family, of whom Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been monarch for almost 60 years, with 2012 seeing the Queen celebrate her Diamond Jubilee in June. The Queen is helped in the carrying out of her duties to the nation by the appointment of a first, or prime minister, currently the Right Honourable David Cameron, Member of Parliament for Witney, a market town some 18kms west of Oxford.
  4. Though Prime Minister Cameron is responsible for the whole of the United Kingdom in matters such as defence, national security, and the national transport network, other areas of public services, such as education and health, are now the responsibility of national government. For example, Scotland and Wales have their own national government, and Northern Ireland has a provincial government. Northern Ireland is sometimes called Ulster. However, strictly speaking this is a name given to the north-eastern province of the Island of Ireland and as such includes counties that lie both in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
  5. In years past, leaders of the UK government have achieved recognition around the world for the part that they have played in history. Perhaps the most notable, but by no means the only recognizable recent leaders have been Sir Winston Churchill, who was heavily involved in the Second World War, and the United Kingdom’s first ever woman prime minister, Baroness Margaret Thatcher, known as the ‘Iron Lady’ for her uncompromising politics and leadership style. The effect of her policies, driven by her strong convictions, became known as ‘Thatcherism’.
  6. Other recent prime ministers have included Tony Blair, born in Scotland and son of a lecuturer in law. He attended St. John's College, Oxford. Originally a Barrister he along with others was the architect of 'New Labour' politics, socialist policies based on market economics. Gordon Brown, another Scot, is the son of a Church Minister and he attended Edinburgh University. Formerly a left-wing academic & journalist, he held the post of Chancellor of the Exchequer or Finance Minister, before becoming Prime Minister.
  7. Full name - David William Donald Cameron Son of a stockbroker and retired JP. MP for Witney, a former blanket town about 10 miles west of Oxford since 2001. Gained 1st Class Honours degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economnics PPE, from Brasenose College, Oxford University. Director of Corporate Affairs at Carlton Communications for seven years. Married to Samantha Cameron, the creative director of a high class stationery company. He is a direct descendent of King William IV, with perhaps the most notable achievement during his reign being the abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
  8. The home of law-making powers for the whole of the United Kingdom for hundreds of years have been the Houses of Parliament in central London, beside the River Thames.
  9. Two large rooms, or chambers achieve this law-making process, the green benches are the House of Commons, and the red benches are the House of Lords.
  10. Since 1099 there has been a building on the site of what is now the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. It was known as Westminster Hall, and was built on Thorney Island in the middle of a swamp. The original building was built by the Normans, the people from northwest France, who had ruled England since 1066. During the reign of Edward the Confessor this building was not only his home, it was the place where meetings about how to rule the country were held, often in the King's bedroom!
  11. Throughout its long history, there have been many landmark events. Here are just a few:- 1348 The original St. Stephen’s Chapel was built, which became the future debating chamber of the House of Commons 1367 – Great Tom was built, the first public chiming clock in England. 1512 – The Palace of Westminster, as it this building became known, due to it also being the home of the king, finally saw the last resident king, Henry VIII, leave to live in one of his other palaces, quite probably Hampton Court Palace. 1536 – 43 – England and Wales unite with Wales having its own Members of Parliament elected to the Westminster Parliament. 1550 – The House of Commons finally gets a permanent home in the old St. Stephen’s Chapel. 1605 – Gunpowder Plot – Guy Fawkes is caught trying to blow up Parliament. 1642 – 49 – After the English Civil War 500,000 people died, in the worst conflict in Britain. The king lost power to Oliver Cromwell, who became Lord Protector or ‘dictator’ in 1653 1689 – Written contract made between a king and his people. Parliament describes what it expects from a monarch. 1707 - England and Scotland unite. 1720 - Robert Walpole becomes the first "Prime Minister". 1780 - First black voter, Ignatius Sancho makes history. 1801 - Ireland joins the Parliament to form a United Kingdom. 1807 - Petitions (lists of signatures of ordinary people) helped to end the slave trade. 1834 - Fire! Only Westminster Hall is saved from being destroyed. 1840 - Charles Barry wins the competition to build Parliament's new home; the buildings we see today.
  12. 1903 - 1908 - Emmeline Pankhurst and friends fight for votes for women - who eventually get the vote in women - who eventually get the vote in 1918 1919 - First woman MP, Nancy Astor, enters parliament. 1921 - Independence gained by southern Ireland from the UK, creating today's UK borders. 1969 - Age of voting lowered to 18 from 21. 1989 - Televisiion introduced to record Parliamentary debates and business 1999 - Separate parliaments for Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales established; more on this later. 2009 - New Supreme Court set up in a separate building away from Parliament, replacing the Law Lords, the highest legal
  13. (75% male 25% female) – 2014. Whilst most parliamentary proceedings and meetings are televised these days, perhaps the most famous of these sessions is called Prime Minister’s Questions, or PMQs, a weekly half-hour question and answer session where the prime minister of the day is subject to scrutiny by MPs of all parties. In recent times there have been concerns of this ‘performance politics’ becoming too noisy and confusing for those watching. It is worth noting here that few other world political leaders are required or would agree to such weekly experiences when parliament is in session.
  14. The House of Lords is often described as a ‘revising chamber’ where proposed new laws are looked at in detail, often by members who bring to the process a lifetime’s expertise outside of politics in their work.
  15. The Scottish Parliament’s present buildings, known informally as Holyrood, after the Queen’s official Scottish residence, Holyrood Palace, close by, were opened by Her Majesty in September 2004, following a referendum in 1997 where Scots people voted for greater devolution of law-making powers. Currently, there are 129 members of the Scottish Parliament, elected to four-year terms of office.
  16. In Wales, the equivalent parliament, or national assembly, commonly known as The Welsh Assembly has 60 members elected to four-year terms. Following a referendum in 1997, the present buildings, known as the Seneth or Senate were opened in March 2006.
  17. In Northern Ireland, the legislature is known as The Northern Ireland Assembly, meets at Parliament Buildings, commonly referred to as Stormont, in Belfast, its largest city. It has 108 members elected for up to five-year terms.
  18. Surprisingly, the United Kingdom has no written constitution, like many other nations, most notably the United States of America. However, that does not mean that laws have no structure. A key legal document that underpins UK legislation is that of the Magna Carta, or Great Charter, dating from 1215. It influenced common and constitutional law, political representation and the development of parliament.
  19. Instead, laws are passed, decisions from past legal cases create case law, and ancient customs and judicial decisions affect common law, leading to the legal system we have today.
  20. The four constituent countries of the United Kingdom have both European, UK, and their own laws and regulations to uphold. These are achieved through the judiciary, the body of judges and magistrates in England and Wales, and Northern Ireland under the authority of the Attorney General, and the Lord Advocate and Advocate General for Scotland. It is important to note that it is the Crown, in the form of Her Majesty the Queen that the judiciary are answerable to and laws are applied or prosecuted in her name, and not to parliament.
  21. Until 2009, the highest court in the United Kingdom was the House of Lords, but now the separation of the legislature and judiciary is more transparent, with the creation of the Supreme Court for all cases except for criminal cases in Scotland, where it is the High Court of Justiciary.
  22. The Privy, or ‘private’ or ‘secret’ council is a body that advises the head of state; what is otherwise known as the Royal Prerogative. By itself, the Council can issue orders, which are used to regulate universities, and royal charters that regulate organisations such as the Royal Society, R.I.B.A., The Royal Institute of British Architects AND .
  23. Other courts, most of which meet outside of London and are situated all over the country include…
  24. Lower levels of civil courts, dealing with matters like business disputes and land and property rights are found all over the country and are often known as County Courts.
  25. The executive power of the United Kingdom, unlike the Monarchy, Judiciary, or Legislature, can be changed on a regular basis by popular vote through the electoral system. The UK operates a multi-party system. In recent elections it has become increasingly difficult to accurately forecast the outcome of the general public’s views on which political party or parties should govern the country.
  26. The results of a better education and a greater curiosity in the workings of national government have led to increased demands for devolved powers to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Today, this means greater tax raising powers, and responsibilities for health and education, and additionally, in Scotland police and criminal law.
  27. Use notes above.
  28. Use notes above
  29. Something not always appreciated is that not only do all ministers of government, including the Prime Minister, Minister for Defence,, Education Secretary, and Foreign Minister have very time-consuming roles to play, but they also have their own constituencies, geographical areas of around 68,000 people, to whom they represent personally in parliament, regardless of whether they support their views or not.
  30. Polling stations have fixed opening hours, to enable the widest number of people to visit and cast their vote. There is an alternative, postal voting, that anyone can apply for. It is particularly useful for those who might otherwise be unable to vote in person. Unusual places for polling stations have included a launderette in Oxford, a caravan in Little Smeaton, West Yorkshire, a football club in Hallam, Sheffield, a residential garage in County Durham, a pub, The Crown, in South Moreton, Oxfordshire, and the East Hull Boxing Club in Kingston-Upon-Hull.
  31. The right to vote is granted to all those of 18 years and older (16 years and older in Scotland for their independence vote on 18 September 2014). Whilst the registration card remains the same for all elections, the ballot papers do change for each election, to reflect changes in candidates and political parties represented. For instance, the European election ballot paper is often coloured green.
  32. Just like in any house move, great change happens, especially after several years in one place, and in addition where your home is your office, with many support staff in daily attendance. The personal letter to the incoming Prime Minister is a powerful symbol of democracy, representing as it does respect for a person regardless of political differences, and respect for the will of the people as expressed in the ballot box.
  33. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, as constitutional head of the United Kingdom, receives the outgoing and incoming Prime or First Ministers, on behalf of all British citizens at her official residence of Buckingham Palace, commonly referred to as ‘the office’, apparently.
  34. A change of occupant at the most famous address in the country is a key event, heralding as it does, a change in government, and occasionally, political leader such as between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
  35. This term comes from the Palace of Westminster, the name of the seat of parliament in the United Kingdom. Essentially, it is a series of procedures to operate a legislature, or decision-making organization, in this case the UK government.
  36. The Conservative party, or more generally known as the Tory party, is a centre-right party and is the largest single political party in the HOUSE OF COMMONS with over 300 MPs. The Labour party is a centre-left party, founded in 1900, originally growing out of the trades union movement and socialist parties of the 19th century. It is often known as a socialist party or a party of social democrats, but contains within it a wide range of political views. The Liberal Democrat party are a social liberal party, formed in 1988 from a merger of the Liberal party and the Social Democratic party after having been in an alliance together for the previous 7 years.
  37. Aged in his 40s and Member of parliament for Doncaster North since 2005, Ed Milliband, as official leader of the opposition, holds the government of the day to account by challenging its plans and promoting some plans of its own.
  38. Aged in his 40s and Member of Parliament for Sheffield Hallam, Nick Clegg is keen to keep the United Kingdom within Europe. He is currently the deputy prime minister in a coalition government which is majority led by the Conservative party.
  39. The Green Party was established to challenge what it sees as threats to the environment, and that remains its main focus. It recently elected its first MEP to the European parliament. The United Kingdom Independence Party (commonly known as UKIP) is a right-wing conservative, Eurosceptic political party, with its principal aim of withdrawing from the European Union. The Jury Party was first established in 2009 and seeks to support independent candidates in United Kingdom domestic and European elections. It is an umbrella organisation, giving financial and marketing backing to Independent candidates, who are free to set their own political agenda outside of the traditional model of standing as the candidate of a particular party. The British National Party (BNP) is a far-right political party formed as a splinter group of the National Front in 1982. The party is ostracised and ridiculed by mainstream political parties in the UK due to its extremist policies.
  40. Responsibilities of County and Metropolitan Councils – including road maintenance, street lighting, local education including all state schools, environmental controls, social services, registrations of births, marriages and deaths. Responsibilities of District & City Councils – including rubbish collection, parks and gardens, sports facilities, cultural festivals & events, planning developments.
  41. There are 3 MEPs for Northern Ireland, 7 for Scotland, 4 for Wales, and 64 for England and all are entitled to sit in the European Parliament, whether it is based in Strasbourg, France or Brussels, Belgium, as they alternate between both locations each month.
  42. The British public have a ‘love-hate’ relationship with the European Union. The most recent European elections saw a strong shift towards the election of political parties that either want a total exit from the European Union altogether, or a re-negotiation and return of many law-making powers currently held by the
  43. Thank you for listening. I hope you have found this introduction to British Parliament and Democracy of interest. Maybe you have learned something new!