Parliament - Functions, Scrutiny and Influence

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Question 4

a) Outline two functions of Parliament

Parliament has many functions; one of the most important functions is making laws. All government legislation must pass through a set of stages in both the House of Commons and House of Lords before it reaches the statute book. All law-making power in the UK issues ultimately from Parliament. Another function of Parliament is representation; it is Parliaments duty to represent the people, political parties aim is to reflect the views of the people who elect them however it is questionable how representative Parliament really is nowadays.

b) Explain three ways in which Parliament carries out its scrutinising role

There are a number of ways in which Parliament scrutinises the work of the government. One way is by asking questions to ministers through Question Time which supplies MP’s with an opportunity to question the Prime Minister and the work of the government. Opposition may use this time to criticise the current government and ‘score points’ although it can be useful for individual MP’s who gain valuable information for their constituency.

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Another way in which Parliament carries out its scrutinising role is through the use of select committees, the job of these committees is to monitor the work of government departments, such as education, defence, health etc. They investigate issues surrounding their department and compile findings and highlighting any failings within a certain department. These committees are cross-party and play an important part in assuring that each department is running at a constantly high level.

A third way in which Parliament carries out its scrutinising role is through opposition days, which belong to the opposition, they normally reserve these ...

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