1. Theories of Executive power p234 -238

2. Cabinet government v Prime Ministerial government.
The Core Executive model
Prime Ministerial Predominance
A British Presidency? Does the PM appear as a directly elected Head of State rather than leader of the party with a majority in parliament.

3. A British Presidency Three trends lead to presidentialisation
Personalised leadership
Public outreach
Spatial leadership
What problems can presidentialisation create?

4. Has there been a presidentialisation of the office of Prime Minister?

5. YES
Leadership in the executive has been personalised, with the Prime Minister expected to impose his or her personality and agenda
Prime Ministers rely on a close circle of senior ministers and advisers
Prime Ministers have created a ‘strategic space’ between themselves and their governments, distancing themselves from other actors in the executive
Prime Ministers appeal to the public directly, through the media, and claim a personal mandate from the electorate
Prime Ministers have additional authority as party leaders, where they are elected by MPs and members, and exercise personalised leadership

6. NO
The Prime Minister leads but cannot command the executive, particularly in coalition, and directs rather than controls the agenda
Senior ministers enjoy support from government and have their own special advisers
The Prime Minister needs the support of ministers and officials to achieve his or her objectives
The Prime Minister’s position is strong only if he or she enjoys policy success and popular approval, and makes effective use of his or her own personal ability
Support from the party is not unconditional, and unpopular leaders face concerted attempts to remove them

7. What factors make UK PM weaker than US president?
What factors might make them stronger?