PARLIAMENT AS Overview

EXAM REQUIREMENT The Exam board specifies the following: A knowledge of the functions of Parliament and an ability to discuss how well these functions are performed; in particular, the relationship between Parliament and the Executive. (The issue of parliamentary reform is examined in Unit 3.)

EXAM REQUIREMENT - 2 AND….. A comparative knowledge of the difference between parliamentary and presidential systems is required.

REVISION REQUIREMENTS List and Learn the various functions that Parliament undertakes [Remember that Parliament includes Commons, Lords and Monarchy, so check any questions carefully – are they asking about Parliament as a whole, or the Commons or Lords specifically? Many of the functions are similar to both, of course.

REVISION REQUIREMENTS (Contd.) Then, look at the pros and cons of the different functions, judging how effective Parliament is in each – use current evidence as much as possible. Pay particular attention to the way Parliament works with, and checks, the Executive. Make sure you understand key concepts, such as parliamentary sovereignty

REVISION REQUIREMENTS (Contd.) Make sure you understand the concept of parliamentary government, and presidential government Outline the differences between them This includes understanding of such issues as fusion or separation of powers

PARLIAMENT’S FUNCTIONS Legitimation – derives from its elective status Scrutiny – to supervise and check the power of the executive Representation Recruitment of government ministers Legislation – making laws Deliberation – the debating function

Parliamentary Government Government through and by Parliament. Members of the government are drawn from the members of parliament. This means that, to form a government, a party must win the most seats in the House of Commons – usually the majority. This gives the government control of the Commons – a fusion of powers. It also means many legislators have a dual function as members of the executive.

Presidential Government Government by an elected president. The president is elected separately from the legislature, gaining his own electoral mandate, and appoints his Cabinet from outside the ranks of the legislature, thus assuring clear separation of powers. The president does not necessarily control a majority in the legislature.

Fusion of Powers Where the separate elements, or powers, of the state, combine together. Most obviously seen in the UK parliamentary system, which combines legislature, executive and judiciary in a single institution – Parliament. The fortunes of the Executive are closely linked to that of the Legislature in particular.

Separation of Powers Where the different elements, or powers, of the state, are kept separate. Most obviously seen in the constitution of the United States of America, where the President (Executive), Congress (Legislature) and Judiciary (Supreme Court) are elected – or chosen (Court) – separately, and act as a check on each other’s power.

SUMMARY You do not need detailed recall of parliamentary procedures Supporting evidence should be as up to date as possible Reform issue is examined in Unit 3