chapter eight politics in britain copyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 pearson education, inc. all rights...

Chapter EightChapter Eight

Politics in BritainPolitics in Britain

Copyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.

Country Bio: United KingdomCountry Bio: United Kingdom


United KingdomUnited Kingdom

United Kingdom created in 1801, merging England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland

Britain did not become a democracy overnight (case study) Evolution not revolution Democratization was a slow process Contrasts with the dominant

European practice of switching between democratic and undemocratic regimes

United Kingdom created in 1801, merging England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland

Britain did not become a democracy overnight (case study) Evolution not revolution Democratization was a slow process Contrasts with the dominant

European practice of switching between democratic and undemocratic regimes


Policy Challenges Facing BritainPolicy Challenges Facing Britain General Election of 2010 - no party won

majority in House of Commons. Conservative Party (Tories) of David

Cameron - 307 seats Labour Party of Gordon Brown - 258 seats Liberal Democratic Party of Nick Clegg -

57 seats. Conservatives, Liberal Democrats formed

coalition Government’s offices divided between

Cameron as prime minister and Clegg as deputy prime minister

General Election of 2010 - no party won majority in House of Commons.

Conservative Party (Tories) of David Cameron - 307 seats

Labour Party of Gordon Brown - 258 seats Liberal Democratic Party of Nick Clegg -

57 seats. Conservatives, Liberal Democrats formed

coalition Government’s offices divided between

Cameron as prime minister and Clegg as deputy prime minister


Policy Challenges Facing BritainPolicy Challenges Facing Britain Next election scheduled for May, 2015 Rise of “independents” and the

fragmentation of the 2 ½ Party System Rise of Nationalist Parties in Scotland and

Wales SNP & Plaid Cymru

Rise of anti-EU parties, esp. UKIP Rise of anti-immigrant parties (BNP, UKIP) Rise of the “Greens”

Next election scheduled for May, 2015 Rise of “independents” and the

fragmentation of the 2 ½ Party System Rise of Nationalist Parties in Scotland and

Wales SNP & Plaid Cymru

Rise of anti-EU parties, esp. UKIP Rise of anti-immigrant parties (BNP, UKIP) Rise of the “Greens”


Policy Challenges Facing BritainPolicy Challenges Facing Britain

British Empire = Commonwealth Antigua and Australia to India,

Pakistan, Zambia differ in wealth, culture, commitment to democracy.

Special relationship with U.S. Involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya “Bush’s Poodle” (Blair) “He calls me bro” (Cameron) Should the UK remain so closely linked

to US?

British Empire = Commonwealth Antigua and Australia to India,

Pakistan, Zambia differ in wealth, culture, commitment to democracy.

Special relationship with U.S. Involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya “Bush’s Poodle” (Blair) “He calls me bro” (Cameron) Should the UK remain so closely linked

to US?


Policy Challenges Facing BritainPolicy Challenges Facing Britain

Britain’s world position has declined European Community (1957) – now

EU Britain did not join until 1973 Created more policy challenges

Resentment toward EU policies as an “attack” on UK sovereignty

Much UK legislation comes from efforts to keep in line with EU policies

Resentment toward immigration from other EU countries

Rise of nationalist/anti-EU/anti-immigrant parties BNP, UKIP

Britain’s world position has declined European Community (1957) – now

EU Britain did not join until 1973 Created more policy challenges

Resentment toward EU policies as an “attack” on UK sovereignty

Much UK legislation comes from efforts to keep in line with EU policies

Resentment toward immigration from other EU countries

Rise of nationalist/anti-EU/anti-immigrant parties BNP, UKIP


The Environment of PoliticsThe Environment of Politics

One Crown but five nations United Kingdom –

England: no English State in international law

Wales: ¼ speak Welch Scotland: separate legal, religious,

educational institutions Northern Ireland: remainder of

Ireland rebelled against Crown in 1916 and a separate Irish state in Dublin in 1921.

One Crown but five nations United Kingdom –

England: no English State in international law

Wales: ¼ speak Welch Scotland: separate legal, religious,

educational institutions Northern Ireland: remainder of

Ireland rebelled against Crown in 1916 and a separate Irish state in Dublin in 1921.


Test yourselfTest yourself

The emergence of a new Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly are evidence of

A. Marxist influences. B. diversity. C. devolution. D. democratic liberalism. E. unitary government.


A. Marxist influences. B. diversity. C. devolution. D. democratic liberalism. E. unitary government.



C. devolution.


C. devolution.

The Environment of PoliticsThe Environment of Politics Unitary State: political system having one

source of authority, British Parliament UK is multinational state Historically, Scotland, Wales governed by

British Cabinet ministers accountable to Parliament. Scotland/Wales (1999): responsibilities for

policy given to local elected assemblies Northern Ireland is most un-English part of

UK formally a secular polity identity questions: Catholics and

Protestants turmoil since 1968, IRA (the “troubles”)

Unitary State: political system having one source of authority, British Parliament

UK is multinational state Historically, Scotland, Wales governed by

British Cabinet ministers accountable to Parliament. Scotland/Wales (1999): responsibilities for

policy given to local elected assemblies Northern Ireland is most un-English part of

UK formally a secular polity identity questions: Catholics and

Protestants turmoil since 1968, IRA (the “troubles”)


Devolved AdministrationsDevolved Administrations

Scottish Parliament 129 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Control over taxation, criminal justice,

health, education, transport, the environment, sport, culture and local government.

British Parliament retains reserved matters Foreign affairs, defense, immigration, social

security and welfare, employment and general economic & fiscal policy

Scottish Parliament 129 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Control over taxation, criminal justice,

health, education, transport, the environment, sport, culture and local government.

British Parliament retains reserved matters Foreign affairs, defense, immigration, social

security and welfare, employment and general economic & fiscal policy


National Assembly for Wales 60 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Most legislation is still controlled by

British Parliament (Westminster) Welsh Assembly deals only with local

matters Health, education, transport, the

environment, culture and local government

National Assembly for Wales 60 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Most legislation is still controlled by

British Parliament (Westminster) Welsh Assembly deals only with local

matters Health, education, transport, the

environment, culture and local government


Northern Ireland Assembly 108 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Assembly’s powers are broad and

similar to those of the Scottish Parliament

Northern Ireland Assembly 108 members Mixed SMD-FPTP & PR election Assembly’s powers are broad and

similar to those of the Scottish Parliament

Scottish IndependenceScottish Independence

Referendum was held in the fall of 2014

Result = no vote (narrow margin) Consequences

Promise of more “devolved” power to Scots More freedom to tax & spend

Wales & Northern Ireland will push to be more like Scotland

Referendum was held in the fall of 2014

Result = no vote (narrow margin) Consequences

Promise of more “devolved” power to Scots More freedom to tax & spend

Wales & Northern Ireland will push to be more like Scotland

Scottish IndependenceScottish Independence

More Consequences “English votes for English laws”

The “West Lothian Question” Scotch & Welsh MPs vote in Parliament

for laws that effect England No corresponding ability for English MPs Need for “English Parliament”? Is a federal system too far behind?

More Consequences “English votes for English laws”

The “West Lothian Question” Scotch & Welsh MPs vote in Parliament

for laws that effect England No corresponding ability for English MPs Need for “English Parliament”? Is a federal system too far behind?

Thinking about Britain:Thinking about Britain:

The basics The Kingdoms One of world’s most densely

populated countries One of the world’s most

monitored societies Millions of surveillance cameras – one for

every 14 citizens

The basics The Kingdoms One of world’s most densely

populated countries One of the world’s most

monitored societies Millions of surveillance cameras – one for

every 14 citizens

A Multiracial BritainA Multiracial Britain

Worldwide British Empire was multiracial and so is commonwealth. Census estimates nonwhite

population of UK had risen from 74,000 to 4.6 million – 8% of UK

Since 9/11: stress integration of immigrant families into British way of life

Response to terrorist attacks: increase police powers restrictions on asylum seekers deportation made easier

Worldwide British Empire was multiracial and so is commonwealth. Census estimates nonwhite

population of UK had risen from 74,000 to 4.6 million – 8% of UK

Since 9/11: stress integration of immigrant families into British way of life

Response to terrorist attacks: increase police powers restrictions on asylum seekers deportation made easier


Thinking about Britain:Thinking about Britain:Terrorism, Religious Minorities & “Britishness”

No longer an “all white” country Still rather homogeneous: religion & ethnicity

Immigrants from former British colonies Muslum minority: approx. 5% of population

9% in London Terrorism – attacks in 2005

Tories criticize “multiculturalism” which they say allows “parallel lives” without a sense of national identity

They would like more direct socialization into British civic culture Government countermeasures Status of civil liberties in UK?

Terrorism, Religious Minorities & “Britishness”No longer an “all white” country Still rather homogeneous: religion & ethnicity

Immigrants from former British colonies Muslum minority: approx. 5% of population

9% in London Terrorism – attacks in 2005

Tories criticize “multiculturalism” which they say allows “parallel lives” without a sense of national identity

They would like more direct socialization into British civic culture Government countermeasures Status of civil liberties in UK?


Welfare state is still strong Social class remains a powerful

force (see photo) Eton and “Oxbridge” Becoming more unequal

Welfare state is still strong Social class remains a powerful

force (see photo) Eton and “Oxbridge” Becoming more unequal


Becoming more unequal Income inequality is the highest it has

been since the 1930s 2011 Riots (“A riot is the language of the unheard”)

Tories: moral failing in contemporary British society; violence by criminals & opportunists

Labour: gov’t austerity measures, absence of opportunities

600K young adults under 25 have never worked Poor policing: 3/4s of rioters had been stopped

and searched; claimed unfair treatment

Becoming more unequal Income inequality is the highest it has

been since the 1930s 2011 Riots (“A riot is the language of the unheard”)

Tories: moral failing in contemporary British society; violence by criminals & opportunists

Labour: gov’t austerity measures, absence of opportunities

600K young adults under 25 have never worked Poor policing: 3/4s of rioters had been stopped

and searched; claimed unfair treatment


Political Economy Climb out of the Great Recession Neo-liberal economic policies since

1979 (Thatcher) Role/extent of welfare state vs.

balancing the budget “Austerity” vs. the “safety net” Special place for the NHS

Political Economy Climb out of the Great Recession Neo-liberal economic policies since

1979 (Thatcher) Role/extent of welfare state vs.

balancing the budget “Austerity” vs. the “safety net” Special place for the NHS

The Evolution of the British State


Sequential, rather than simultaneous, tasks of British

Building the nation state Defining the role of religion Establishing liberal democracy Industrial revolution

Maintained legitimacy without constitution

Sequential, rather than simultaneous, tasks of British

Building the nation state Defining the role of religion Establishing liberal democracy Industrial revolution

Maintained legitimacy without constitution



The Broad Sweep of British History King and Parliament sharing power for

over 700 years Religion removed from politics after

16th and 17th centuries Growth of Parliamentary power;

decline of Royal power Capitalism and urbanization promoted

democratic reforms Modern parties established in late

19th century

The Broad Sweep of British History King and Parliament sharing power for

over 700 years Religion removed from politics after

16th and 17th centuries Growth of Parliamentary power;

decline of Royal power Capitalism and urbanization promoted

democratic reforms Modern parties established in late

19th century

Early British Political HistoryEarly British Political History

Date Set #1 1215 1660 1688 1911 1912

Date Set #1 1215 1660 1688 1911 1912

Date Set #2 1832 1867 1918 1928

Date Set #2 1832 1867 1918 1928

ActivityActivity

Divide into groups One member of each group should

have an electronic device that connects to the internet

Research the dates in terms of British political history

What does data set #1 represent? #2?

Divide into groups One member of each group should

have an electronic device that connects to the internet

Research the dates in terms of British political history

What does data set #1 represent? #2?

Early British Political HistoryEarly British Political History

Date Set #1 = Growth of Parliamentary Power

Date Set #2 = Growth of Democracy

Date Set #1 = Growth of Parliamentary Power

Date Set #2 = Growth of Democracy

The Making of Modern England:Evolution

The Making of Modern England:Evolution 1. The Crown was established as

the central authority in medieval times.

2. The supremacy of the state’s power over the church was settled in the 16th century when Henry VIII broke with the Catholic Church to establish the Church of England.

1. The Crown was established as the central authority in medieval times.

2. The supremacy of the state’s power over the church was settled in the 16th century when Henry VIII broke with the Catholic Church to establish the Church of England.

The Making of Modern England:Evolution

The Making of Modern England:Evolution 3. The power struggle between

Crown and Parliament was resolved by a civil war in the 17th century in which Parliament triumphed and a weakened monarch was then restored. Parliament became able to hold the

Crown accountable by the 18th century, but Parliament represented only a small portion of the population.

3. The power struggle between Crown and Parliament was resolved by a civil war in the 17th century in which Parliament triumphed and a weakened monarch was then restored. Parliament became able to hold the

Crown accountable by the 18th century, but Parliament represented only a small portion of the population.


The National Health Service was established in

A. the 1940s. B. the 1950s. C. the 1970s. D. the 1980s. E. the 1990s.


A. the 1940s. B. the 1950s. C. the 1970s. D. the 1980s. E. the 1990s.



A. the 1940s.


A. the 1940s.

The Evolution of the Modern British State

The Evolution of the Modern British State

Stage 1: The Collectivist Consensus (1940s)

WWII coalition government became an informal agreement on many issues

Beveridge Report of 1942 formed core of “Collectivist Consensus” (social welfare program)

Post-war political cleavages were class based more than policy based

Stage 1: The Collectivist Consensus (1940s)

WWII coalition government became an informal agreement on many issues

Beveridge Report of 1942 formed core of “Collectivist Consensus” (social welfare program)

Post-war political cleavages were class based more than policy based

The Evolution of the Modern British StateThe Evolution of the Modern British State Stage #2 (1951-1964) The

Consensus Era Conservatives in office Maintained consensus on social welfare Used Keynesian economics to promote

growth, full employment & low inflation 3rd stage (early 60s through 1970s)

“What wrong with Britain?” Stagnation and political drift

Stage #2 (1951-1964) The Consensus Era Conservatives in office Maintained consensus on social welfare Used Keynesian economics to promote

growth, full employment & low inflation 3rd stage (early 60s through 1970s)

“What wrong with Britain?” Stagnation and political drift

Stage 4: The Thatcher Revolution Stage 4: The Thatcher Revolution

1979, Margaret Thatcher – Conservatives Policies of free-market From nationalization to privatization

(Thatcher – “The Iron Lady”) From Keynes to Friedman (monetary

policy & supply-side economics) Falklands War (vs. Argentina) Thatcher never won more than 43%

of total vote but division within other parties helped her win

replaced by John Major

1979, Margaret Thatcher – Conservatives Policies of free-market From nationalization to privatization

(Thatcher – “The Iron Lady”) From Keynes to Friedman (monetary

policy & supply-side economics) Falklands War (vs. Argentina) Thatcher never won more than 43%

of total vote but division within other parties helped her win

replaced by John MajorCopyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.

Stage 5: The Blair RevolutionStage 5: The Blair Revolution 1994, Tony Blair – “New” Labour

2nd longest serving prime minister of past century

New Labour’s “humane face” on social welfare reform

Traffic tax in London to pay for public transport investment (Blair)

Iraq: How to respond to massive public opposition? (Blair)

Successor – 2007 – Gordon Brown

1994, Tony Blair – “New” Labour 2nd longest serving prime minister

of past century New Labour’s “humane face” on social

welfare reform Traffic tax in London to pay for public

transport investment (Blair) Iraq: How to respond to massive public

opposition? (Blair) Successor – 2007 – Gordon Brown

Recent HistoryRecent History

2010 to present “Hung Parliament” Coalition government

Conservatives + Liberal Democrats PM is David Cameron (Con) Deputy PM is Nick Clegg (LD)

2010 to present “Hung Parliament” Coalition government

Conservatives + Liberal Democrats PM is David Cameron (Con) Deputy PM is Nick Clegg (LD)


The British State: Enduring Myths and Changing

Realities


Realities The Monarchy and the Lords: visible but

powerless Parliamentary sovereignty, sort of

Real power lies with leadership of majority party Collective responsibility is key to power

Cabinet government? Ministers rely on expertise of senior civil

servants Top ministers and PM’s personal advisors make

broad policies

The Monarchy and the Lords: visible but powerless

Parliamentary sovereignty, sort of Real power lies with leadership of majority party Collective responsibility is key to power

Cabinet government? Ministers rely on expertise of senior civil

servants Top ministers and PM’s personal advisors make

broad policies

Test yourselfTest yourself The ceremonial head of state,

the Crown, A. has veto power over some

legislation. B. works with the House of Lords to

formulate legislation. C. symbolizes the authority of

government. D. has absolutely no bearing on modern

government in Britain. E. is always represented by a male heir.

The ceremonial head of state, the Crown,

A. has veto power over some legislation.

B. works with the House of Lords to formulate legislation.

C. symbolizes the authority of government.

D. has absolutely no bearing on modern government in Britain.

E. is always represented by a male heir.

The Structure of GovernmentThe Structure of Government

Unwritten constitution: Acts Of Parliament Judicial Pronouncements Customs and Conventions Few constraints in unwritten

constitution: Vagueness makes it flexible Can be changed by majority vote in

Parliament or by government choosing to act in unprecedented manner

English courts claim no power to declare act of Parliament unconstitutional

Unwritten constitution: Acts Of Parliament Judicial Pronouncements Customs and Conventions Few constraints in unwritten

constitution: Vagueness makes it flexible Can be changed by majority vote in

Parliament or by government choosing to act in unprecedented manner

English courts claim no power to declare act of Parliament unconstitutional


British ConstitutionalismBritish Constitutionalism

“un-codified” Statutory law = parliamentary law “Conventions” – agreed upon

standards & rules Interpretations Treaties European Union laws

“un-codified” Statutory law = parliamentary law “Conventions” – agreed upon

standards & rules Interpretations Treaties European Union laws

British ConstitutionalismBritish Constitutionalism

1. Defines the powers of Parliament 2. Define the relationships between

Parliament and the Crown 3. Relationships among the

constituent parts of the UK (Scotland, Wales, No. Ireland)

4. Rights of Citizens vs. the state

1. Defines the powers of Parliament 2. Define the relationships between

Parliament and the Crown 3. Relationships among the

constituent parts of the UK (Scotland, Wales, No. Ireland)

4. Rights of Citizens vs. the state

Some Key Parts of the British ConstitutionSome Key Parts of the British Constitution

Magna Carta (1215) The Habeas Corpus Act (1679) The Bill of Rights (1689) The Act of Settlement (1701) The Parliament Acts (1911 and 1949) The Peerage Act (1963) The European Communities Act (1972) The Scotland Act (1998) The Human Rights Act (1998) The House of Lords Act (1999) Reform Acts (1832 & 1867)

Magna Carta (1215) The Habeas Corpus Act (1679) The Bill of Rights (1689) The Act of Settlement (1701) The Parliament Acts (1911 and 1949) The Peerage Act (1963) The European Communities Act (1972) The Scotland Act (1998) The Human Rights Act (1998) The House of Lords Act (1999) Reform Acts (1832 & 1867)

Bagehot’s AnalysisBagehot’s Analysis

1867 “The English Constitution” Two parts 1. “dignified”

“excite and preserve the reverence of the population”

“attach” the population to the state/government

Basis for legitimacy and authority

1867 “The English Constitution” Two parts 1. “dignified”

“excite and preserve the reverence of the population”

“attach” the population to the state/government

Basis for legitimacy and authority

Bagehot’s AnalysisBagehot’s Analysis

2. “effective”/”efficient” How power is employed Actual functioning of the institutions Reality

2. “effective”/”efficient” How power is employed Actual functioning of the institutions Reality

Structure of the U.K. GovernmentStructure of the U.K. Government 1. Constitutional monarchy 2. Unitary state 3. Parliamentary democracy

Executive is part of and answerable to Parliament (House of Commons)

4. Fusion of Power Cabinet government Collective decision making Collective responsibility

1. Constitutional monarchy 2. Unitary state 3. Parliamentary democracy

Executive is part of and answerable to Parliament (House of Commons)

4. Fusion of Power Cabinet government Collective decision making Collective responsibility


Which of the following institutions may delay or debate legislation, but not create new legislation, in England?

A. office of the Exchequer B. prime minister C. Cabinet D. House of Commons E. House of Lords


A. office of the Exchequer B. prime minister C. Cabinet D. House of Commons E. House of Lords



E. House of Lords


E. House of Lords

The Structure of GovernmentThe Structure of Government

Crown rather than a constitution symbolizes the authority of government. Monarch only ceremonial head of state.

What constitutes the Crown? Government Government officials Whitehall Downing Street Parliament

Collectively referred to as Westminster

Crown rather than a constitution symbolizes the authority of government. Monarch only ceremonial head of state.

What constitutes the Crown? Government Government officials Whitehall Downing Street Parliament

Collectively referred to as Westminster


The MonarchyThe Monarchy

Political Roles “Assents” to legislation Queen’s Speech

Written by the government and delivered at the State opening of Parliament each year

Sets out the legislative agenda for the year ahead

Doesn’t include everything Budget and pre-budget reports excluded

Political Roles “Assents” to legislation Queen’s Speech

Written by the government and delivered at the State opening of Parliament each year

Sets out the legislative agenda for the year ahead

Doesn’t include everything Budget and pre-budget reports excluded

What the Prime Minister Says and DoesWhat the Prime Minister Says and Does

Political Leader Ambiguous Duties Imperatives of the Prime

Minister: Winning elections Campaigning through the

media Focus of media attention

Dispenses Patronage Parliamentary performance Making and balancing

policies

Political Leader Ambiguous Duties Imperatives of the Prime

Minister: Winning elections Campaigning through the

media Focus of media attention

Dispenses Patronage Parliamentary performance Making and balancing

policiesCopyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.

Prime Minister’s RolesPrime Minister’s Roles

1. Party Leader Maintain support of fellow MPs Keep coalition together (if necessary)

2. Leader of government Question Time – defend government

policies and answer questions

1. Party Leader Maintain support of fellow MPs Keep coalition together (if necessary)

2. Leader of government Question Time – defend government

policies and answer questions

The Prime Minister – Downing StreetThe Prime Minister – Downing Street Speaks legitimately for all members of

Parliament Chooses, moves and dismisses cabinet

ministers and important subordinate posts

Chairs Cabinet and determines its agenda

Appoints senior members of civil service Makes decisions in the Cabinet, with the

agreement of the ministers

Speaks legitimately for all members of Parliament

Chooses, moves and dismisses cabinet ministers and important subordinate posts

Chairs Cabinet and determines its agenda

Appoints senior members of civil service Makes decisions in the Cabinet, with the

agreement of the ministers

The Prime Minister – Downing StreetThe Prime Minister – Downing Street

3. Politician Guide his party to victory in general

elections Determine date of “general elections”

Campaigns for and represents the party in parliamentary elections

Electoral victory = “mandate” for party manifesto

3. Politician Guide his party to victory in general

elections Determine date of “general elections”

Campaigns for and represents the party in parliamentary elections

Electoral victory = “mandate” for party manifesto

The Prime MinisterThe Prime Minister

4. National & International Leader Represents the nation at international

summits Focus of media attention

4. National & International Leader Represents the nation at international

summits Focus of media attention


Nothing equivalent to Article II of the US Constitution that defines the PM’s powers Instead powers come from

“convention”

Nothing equivalent to Article II of the US Constitution that defines the PM’s powers Instead powers come from

“convention”


Additional powers as mentioned in Gordon Brown’s speech Power of the executive to declare war Power to request dissolution of

Parliament Power of the recall of Parliament Power of the executive to ratify

international treaties w/o a decision by Parliament

Additional powers as mentioned in Gordon Brown’s speech Power of the executive to declare war Power to request dissolution of

Parliament Power of the recall of Parliament Power of the executive to ratify

international treaties w/o a decision by Parliament

Interest Group View of Who Holds the Most Power (‘92)Interest Group View of Who Holds the Most Power (‘92)


Chairman of the Cabinet Primus inter pares When the Cabinet meets and what it

discusses Sums up the discussion Determines the extent and composition of

Cabinet committees Head of Civil Service reports directly to

PM Deliver government’s promises

Chairman of the Cabinet Primus inter pares When the Cabinet meets and what it

discusses Sums up the discussion Determines the extent and composition of

Cabinet committees Head of Civil Service reports directly to

PM Deliver government’s promises

The Cabinet and Cabinet MinistersThe Cabinet and Cabinet Ministers

Cabinet is senior ministers appointed by prime minister

Must be members of House of Commons or House of Lords

Remain important as department heads Major Whitehall departments differ

greatly from each other Political reputation of ministers depends

on success in promoting interests of their department in parliament, in media, in battles within Whitehall

Cabinet is senior ministers appointed by prime minister

Must be members of House of Commons or House of Lords

Remain important as department heads Major Whitehall departments differ

greatly from each other Political reputation of ministers depends

on success in promoting interests of their department in parliament, in media, in battles within Whitehall



Appointment of Ministers By “convention” normally drawn from

Parliament Predominantly from the House of

Commons Drawn from the PM’s majority party Balance geography & different wings of

the party Appointment assures ministerial loyalty

Collective responsibility

Appointment of Ministers By “convention” normally drawn from

Parliament Predominantly from the House of

Commons Drawn from the PM’s majority party Balance geography & different wings of

the party Appointment assures ministerial loyalty

Collective responsibility

The CabinetThe Cabinet

PM + Cabinet = “the government” The “collective decision-making

body” of British (UK) government 20-24 members Ministerial heads of principal

government departments

PM + Cabinet = “the government” The “collective decision-making

body” of British (UK) government 20-24 members Ministerial heads of principal

government departments


Ministers roles Initiate policies Oversee the actions of thousands of civil

servants Interact with the media

Not an expert in his policy area Is an expert in Parliamentary politics They must rely on their advisors and

civil servants

Ministers roles Initiate policies Oversee the actions of thousands of civil

servants Interact with the media

Not an expert in his policy area Is an expert in Parliamentary politics They must rely on their advisors and

civil servants


As a body, it has no legal powers Instead the powers are vested in

ministers When the government takes on new

powers, those powers are vested in ministers

Major policies are announced through the publication of a “white paper” Report/policy document that has gone

through the cabinet but was drawn up within departments

As a body, it has no legal powers Instead the powers are vested in

ministers When the government takes on new

powers, those powers are vested in ministers

Major policies are announced through the publication of a “white paper” Report/policy document that has gone

through the cabinet but was drawn up within departments


Cabinet is challenged by the “Shadow Cabinet” of the opposition Adversarial

The PM may choose to have the Sovereign dismiss a minister

The PM may conduct a Cabinet “reshuffle” Ministers are reassigned to different

departments Bound by two conventions

Cabinet collective responsibility Cabinet independent responsibility

Cabinet is challenged by the “Shadow Cabinet” of the opposition Adversarial

The PM may choose to have the Sovereign dismiss a minister

The PM may conduct a Cabinet “reshuffle” Ministers are reassigned to different

departments Bound by two conventions

Cabinet collective responsibility Cabinet independent responsibility

Collective ResponsibilityCollective Responsibility

Members must resign if they do not support the policies of the Government set forth by the PM Ministers may argue in a cabinet session, but

once a decision has been made, they are required to support it publically

Similar to a concept called “democratic centralism

If a motion of no confidence passes, all cabinet members must resign

Members of the cabinet accept responsibility for decisions made by it

Members must resign if they do not support the policies of the Government set forth by the PM Ministers may argue in a cabinet session, but

once a decision has been made, they are required to support it publically

Similar to a concept called “democratic centralism

If a motion of no confidence passes, all cabinet members must resign

Members of the cabinet accept responsibility for decisions made by it

Individual ResponsibilityIndividual Responsibility

If a minister’s department is involved in a major scandal, the minister is considered responsible for the problem, even though the fault may not be his/hers

If the minister is involved in a personal scandal, the minister must resign

If a minister’s department is involved in a major scandal, the minister is considered responsible for the problem, even though the fault may not be his/hers

If the minister is involved in a personal scandal, the minister must resign

Cabinet GovernmentCabinet Government

In theory, the Cabinet is a “check” on the PM’s power The PM must gain the support of a

majority of the cabinet for any significant decisions

Concept weakened under Thatcher & Blair Meetings are “dull & perfunctory, and

debate is rare.” The PM, a few key cabinet ministers, and a

handful of advisers make decisions in smaller gatherings.

In theory, the Cabinet is a “check” on the PM’s power The PM must gain the support of a

majority of the cabinet for any significant decisions

Concept weakened under Thatcher & Blair Meetings are “dull & perfunctory, and

debate is rare.” The PM, a few key cabinet ministers, and a

handful of advisers make decisions in smaller gatherings.

Case Study: The Iraq WarCase Study: The Iraq War

Decision to go to war was discussed “but was never subjected to the full-scale

debate and formal cabinet approval” “To gain assent for the Iraq War, the

PM had summoned cabinet ministers individually.”

Cabinet meetings were beside the point

Decision to go to war was discussed “but was never subjected to the full-scale

debate and formal cabinet approval” “To gain assent for the Iraq War, the

PM had summoned cabinet ministers individually.”

Cabinet meetings were beside the point

Cabinet GovernmentCabinet Government

The PM holds or controls many of the levers of power in the core executive

His/her office helps develop policy, coordinates operations, and functions as a liaison with the media, the party, interest groups and the Parliament

“The culmination of a long process of centralization of power in the hands of the PM is seen in the declining role of the Cabinet and the increased development of resources inside Number 10.”

The PM holds or controls many of the levers of power in the core executive

His/her office helps develop policy, coordinates operations, and functions as a liaison with the media, the party, interest groups and the Parliament

“The culmination of a long process of centralization of power in the hands of the PM is seen in the declining role of the Cabinet and the increased development of resources inside Number 10.”

The Role of Parliament (Westminster)The Role of Parliament (Westminster)

Principal division in Parliament is between party with majority of seats in House of Commons and opposition party.

If bill or motion is identified as vote of confidence in government, government will fall if it is defeated

MPs from majority party generally vote as party leadership instructs

Principal division in Parliament is between party with majority of seats in House of Commons and opposition party.

If bill or motion is identified as vote of confidence in government, government will fall if it is defeated

MPs from majority party generally vote as party leadership instructs


The Role of ParliamentThe Role of Parliament

Whitehall departments draft bills presented to Parliament

Government rather than Parliament sets budget

Parliament is “a policy-ratifying” body

Whitehall departments draft bills presented to Parliament

Government rather than Parliament sets budget

Parliament is “a policy-ratifying” body


The Role of ParliamentThe Role of Parliament

Functions of MPs: weigh political reputations publicize issues scrutinize legislation examine how Whitehall

departments administer public policies

MPs in the governing party have private access to the government ministers

Functions of MPs: weigh political reputations publicize issues scrutinize legislation examine how Whitehall

departments administer public policies

MPs in the governing party have private access to the government ministers


The Role of ParliamentThe Role of Parliament House of Lords

Unique as second chamber because initially composed of hereditary peers

1999: Labour abolished right of all but 92 hereditary peers to sit in House of Lords

Government often introduces noncontroversial legislation in Lords if it deals with technical matters

Uses Lords as revising chamber to amend bills

Lords cannot veto legislation, but can amend or delay passage of government bills

House of Lords Unique as second chamber because

initially composed of hereditary peers 1999: Labour abolished right of all but

92 hereditary peers to sit in House of Lords

Government often introduces noncontroversial legislation in Lords if it deals with technical matters

Uses Lords as revising chamber to amend bills

Lords cannot veto legislation, but can amend or delay passage of government bills


The Civil Service – “Whitehall”The Civil Service – “Whitehall”

Largest number of civil servants are clerical staff with little discretion

Most important group of civil servants is smallest group Advise ministers, oversee work of

their departments Top civil servants are bipartisan,

ready to work for whichever party is winner

Thatcher: focus on making civil service more businesslike

Largest number of civil servants are clerical staff with little discretion

Most important group of civil servants is smallest group Advise ministers, oversee work of

their departments Top civil servants are bipartisan,

ready to work for whichever party is winner

Thatcher: focus on making civil service more businesslike


The BureaucracyThe Bureaucracy

Permanent secretary Very senior career civil servant who has

responsibility for running a department Civil servants do much of the work of

conceptualizing and refining legislation Done by committee staff in US Congress

Political because they are concerned with formulating, revising, and advising on policies

Permanent secretary Very senior career civil servant who has

responsibility for running a department Civil servants do much of the work of

conceptualizing and refining legislation Done by committee staff in US Congress

Political because they are concerned with formulating, revising, and advising on policies


Bipartisan because they need to be ready to work for whichever party is the winner of an election

Ministers rely on the expertise of senior civil servants because they are political appointees and often not experts in the area they are responsible for

Bipartisan because they need to be ready to work for whichever party is the winner of an election

Ministers rely on the expertise of senior civil servants because they are political appointees and often not experts in the area they are responsible for


Non-departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs) Since the 1970’s an increasing number

of administrative functions have been transferred to bodies that are part of the government in terms of funding, function and appointment of staff But, they operate at arm’s length from

ministers

Non-departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs) Since the 1970’s an increasing number

of administrative functions have been transferred to bodies that are part of the government in terms of funding, function and appointment of staff But, they operate at arm’s length from

ministers


NDPBs are better known as QUANGOs Quasi-nongovernmental organizations They take responsibility for specific

functions and can combine governmental and private sector expertise

Some are involved in the delivery of services

NDPBs are better known as QUANGOs Quasi-nongovernmental organizations They take responsibility for specific

functions and can combine governmental and private sector expertise

Some are involved in the delivery of services


Realities


Realities The rest of the state

Civil servants act as administrators, not policy makers

Regulatory agencies oversee former government corporations

QUANGOs make a great deal of policy and regulation

While courts have potential to be more active, they have never exercised a policy-making role

The rest of the state Civil servants act as administrators, not

policy makers Regulatory agencies oversee former

government corporations QUANGOs make a great deal of policy and

regulation While courts have potential to be more

active, they have never exercised a policy-making role

The Courts and Abuses of PowerThe Courts and Abuses of Power Supreme Court created as highest

judicial authority, 2009 Replaced old practice of highest court

being committee of House of Lords “Law Lords”

Court consists of president and 11 justices

Serves as final appeal on points of law Limited powers, cannot declare Acts of

Parliament unconstitutional

Supreme Court created as highest judicial authority, 2009

Replaced old practice of highest court being committee of House of Lords

“Law Lords”

Court consists of president and 11 justices

Serves as final appeal on points of law Limited powers, cannot declare Acts of

Parliament unconstitutional


Court System in England and WalesCourt System in England and Wales

Supreme Court Final word on all types of cases other

than criminal matters in Scotland Also rule in disputes over devolution No power of judicial review

Violation of “parliamentary supremacy” May issue declaration of incompatability

Supreme Court Final word on all types of cases other

than criminal matters in Scotland Also rule in disputes over devolution No power of judicial review

Violation of “parliamentary supremacy” May issue declaration of incompatability

Great Britain: Supreme CourtGreat Britain: Supreme Court

However, The Court must enforce directly applicable European Union law,

and interpret domestic law so far as possible

consistently with European Union law. It must also enforce the rights contained

in the European Convention on Human Rights.

A sovereignty issue caused by membership in the EU

However, The Court must enforce directly applicable European Union law,

and interpret domestic law so far as possible

consistently with European Union law. It must also enforce the rights contained

in the European Convention on Human Rights.

A sovereignty issue caused by membership in the EU

Great Britain: CourtsGreat Britain: Courts

Human Rights Act 1998: Rights guaranteed in the European Convention on Human Rights are secured in British courts.

Human Rights Act 1998: Rights guaranteed in the European Convention on Human Rights are secured in British courts.

Government as NetworkGovernment as Network

Within Whitehall network, core set of political figures are important in determining policies Prime Minister Cabinet Ministers In coalition government major

decisions cannot be made by single politician

Within Whitehall network, core set of political figures are important in determining policies Prime Minister Cabinet Ministers In coalition government major

decisions cannot be made by single politician


Political Culture and LegitimacyPolitical Culture and Legitimacy Legitimacy comes from history, tradition,

monarchy, democracy Who should be involved in decision

making? Trusteeship Theory of Government: leaders

take initiative and use own best judgment Collectivist Theory of Government:

government balances competing demands; parties represent groups/classes

Individualist Theory of Government: parties represent people not groups; freedom from government; choice; “market”

Legitimacy comes from history, tradition, monarchy, democracy

Who should be involved in decision making?

Trusteeship Theory of Government: leaders take initiative and use own best judgment

Collectivist Theory of Government: government balances competing demands; parties represent groups/classes

Individualist Theory of Government: parties represent people not groups; freedom from government; choice; “market”


British Political CultureBritish Political Culture

Will there always be a Britain? Identification with the UK has declined in

past 40 years Resurgence of support for regional parties in

Scotland and Wales Devolution (regional parliaments) Monarchy’s loss of influence and prestige Increasing racial diversity (most born in the

UK) Growing importance of the EU

Will there always be a Britain? Identification with the UK has declined in

past 40 years Resurgence of support for regional parties in

Scotland and Wales Devolution (regional parliaments) Monarchy’s loss of influence and prestige Increasing racial diversity (most born in the

UK) Growing importance of the EU

Political SocializationPolitical Socialization

Socialization influences the division between those who do and do not participate Family and Gender: create youthful

identification with party Education: more educated not as

likely to be conservative as once were Class: Conservative = middle class,

Labour = working class Mass Media: only a few papers, TV is

primary source of news

Socialization influences the division between those who do and do not participate Family and Gender: create youthful

identification with party Education: more educated not as

likely to be conservative as once were Class: Conservative = middle class,

Labour = working class Mass Media: only a few papers, TV is

primary source of newsCopyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.

Political ParticipationPolitical Participation

Voting: competitive elections bring higher turnout

Sign Petitions Contact Politicians Party Volunteers Most politically involved are no

more than 1/10 of 1 percent of electorate.

Voting: competitive elections bring higher turnout

Sign Petitions Contact Politicians Party Volunteers Most politically involved are no

more than 1/10 of 1 percent of electorate.



The British electorate Long time class-based politics upset by

radicalism and Thatcher victories Rather than realignment, it was a

dealignment Labour victories probably the result of

voter “fatigue” with Conservative government and Labour’s success in appealing to middle class and post-materialist voters

The British electorate Long time class-based politics upset by

radicalism and Thatcher victories Rather than realignment, it was a

dealignment Labour victories probably the result of

voter “fatigue” with Conservative government and Labour’s success in appealing to middle class and post-materialist voters

Political RecruitmentPolitical Recruitment

Important political roles: Cabinet minister higher civil servant partisan advisers intermittent public persons

Each group has own recruitment pattern

Starting early on political career necessary for success

Geography –career will be spent in London

Important political roles: Cabinet minister higher civil servant partisan advisers intermittent public persons

Each group has own recruitment pattern

Starting early on political career necessary for success

Geography –career will be spent in London


Organizing Group InterestsOrganizing Group Interests

Civil society institutions flourished in Britain for centuries Confederation of British Industries:

big business, direct contacts with Whitehall

Trades Union Congress: labor Voluntary/Charitable Associations Lobbying must be done at highest

levels where bills are drafted

Civil society institutions flourished in Britain for centuries Confederation of British Industries:

big business, direct contacts with Whitehall

Trades Union Congress: labor Voluntary/Charitable Associations Lobbying must be done at highest

levels where bills are drafted


What Interest Groups WantWhat Interest Groups Want

Most interest groups pursue three goals: sympathetic administration of established

policies information about government policies and

changes in policies influence on policymaking

Insider Interest Groups: have values in harmony with all parties

Outsider Interest Groups: demands are inconsistent with party in power Keeping Interest Groups at a Distance: less

reliance on negotiations with groups and more on authority of Crown

Most interest groups pursue three goals: sympathetic administration of established

policies information about government policies and

changes in policies influence on policymaking

Insider Interest Groups: have values in harmony with all parties

Outsider Interest Groups: demands are inconsistent with party in power Keeping Interest Groups at a Distance: less

reliance on negotiations with groups and more on authority of Crown


Party System and Electoral ChoiceParty System and Electoral Choice General election must occur at least once

every five years Prime minister is free to call election any

time Winner is candidate who is first past the

post (plurality) Winner nationally is party that gains most

seats Two party system vs. multiparty system Distribution of seats in House of Commons

different from distribution of share of votes

General election must occur at least once every five years

Prime minister is free to call election any time

Winner is candidate who is first past the post (plurality)

Winner nationally is party that gains most seats

Two party system vs. multiparty system Distribution of seats in House of Commons

different from distribution of share of votes


Party Images and AppealsParty Images and Appeals

Terminology of left/right rejected by British voters median voter tends to choose central position, a

tenth on far left or far right consensus among voters on variety of issues;

economy, crime, health service major concerns parties emphasize collectivist economic interests

and consensual goals Governing party has votes to enact parliamentary

legislation, regardless of protests by opposition New governments must also enforce the laws

enacted by the previous governments

Terminology of left/right rejected by British voters median voter tends to choose central position, a

tenth on far left or far right consensus among voters on variety of issues;

economy, crime, health service major concerns parties emphasize collectivist economic interests

and consensual goals Governing party has votes to enact parliamentary

legislation, regardless of protests by opposition New governments must also enforce the laws

enacted by the previous governments


Central Authority and Decentralized Delivery of Policies


Unitary state, political authority is centralized Decisions are binding on public agencies

through Acts of Parliament and regulations Treasury must authorize expenditures

before bill can be put to Parliament Minister must pilot bill through Parliament Minister may also negotiate agreement with

public agencies outside and with affected interest groups

Unitary state, political authority is centralized Decisions are binding on public agencies

through Acts of Parliament and regulations Treasury must authorize expenditures

before bill can be put to Parliament Minister must pilot bill through Parliament Minister may also negotiate agreement with

public agencies outside and with affected interest groups



Central Authority and Decentralized Delivery of Policies Devolution to Elected Officials:

Local government is subordinate to central government

Scotland and Wales to representative assemblies

Local council elections fought on party lines Local government divided into two tiers of

county, district councils, each with responsibility for local services

Central government grants are largest source of local government revenue

Devolution to Elected Officials: Local government is subordinate to central

government Scotland and Wales to representative

assemblies Local council elections fought on party lines

Local government divided into two tiers of county, district councils, each with responsibility for local services

Central government grants are largest source of local government revenue



Central Authority and Decentralized Delivery of Policies Nonelected Institutions:

Executive agencies National Health Service (NHS)

Quasi-Autonomous Nongovernmental Organizations QUANGOs)

Advisory Committees Administrative Tribunals

Turning to the Market Privatization

Nonelected Institutions: Executive agencies National Health Service (NHS)

Quasi-Autonomous Nongovernmental Organizations QUANGOs)

Advisory Committees Administrative Tribunals

Turning to the Market Privatization


Why Public Policy MattersWhy Public Policy Matters

Government relies on three major resources to produce benefits of public policy: Laws – unique resource of government;

contracts are only effective if enforced Money – taxes on incomes and

consumption and stealth taxes Personnel – public employees are needed

to administer laws and deliver services Social security most costly program of

British government

Government relies on three major resources to produce benefits of public policy: Laws – unique resource of government;

contracts are only effective if enforced Money – taxes on incomes and

consumption and stealth taxes Personnel – public employees are needed

to administer laws and deliver services Social security most costly program of

British government


Policy Outcomes in SocietyPolicy Outcomes in Society

Outputs of public policy play significant part in everyday lives of Britons

Benefits received are especially important for low-income families

Average family makes use of at least two major social programs: health and education services

Broad agreement about need to make economy more competitive in global economy

Differences of opinion about policy that can best achieve goal

Outputs of public policy play significant part in everyday lives of Britons

Benefits received are especially important for low-income families

Average family makes use of at least two major social programs: health and education services

Broad agreement about need to make economy more competitive in global economy

Differences of opinion about policy that can best achieve goal



Is the final court of appeal for all United Kingdom civil cases, and criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Hears appeals on arguable points of law of general public importance

Concentrates on cases of the greatest public and constitutional importance

Is the final court of appeal for all United Kingdom civil cases, and criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Hears appeals on arguable points of law of general public importance

Concentrates on cases of the greatest public and constitutional importance


The civic culture and the collectivist years

high levels of legitimacy great civic tolerance patriotic enthusiasm

The civic culture and the collectivist years

high levels of legitimacy great civic tolerance patriotic enthusiasm

Great BritainGreat Britain

Rule of law tradition: Magna Carta 1215

Common law (case law): precedent: Independent court

Measures: World Bank Governance Percentile

Rank: 92.3 Freedom House: PR-1, CL-1

Rule of law tradition: Magna Carta 1215

Common law (case law): precedent: Independent court

Measures: World Bank Governance Percentile

Rank: 92.3 Freedom House: PR-1, CL-1

Court System in England and WalesCourt System in England and Wales Lower level (original jurisdiction)

Magistrates’ courts for minor criminal cases Crown courts for serious criminal cases

High Court Chancery Division (equity, tax, bankruptcy) Family Division Queen’s Bench (contract, tort & commercial

cases)

Lower level (original jurisdiction) Magistrates’ courts for minor criminal cases Crown courts for serious criminal cases

High Court Chancery Division (equity, tax, bankruptcy) Family Division Queen’s Bench (contract, tort & commercial

cases)

Court System ScotlandCourt System Scotland

Treaty of Union of 1707 guaranteed the Scottish legal system.

Original jurisdiction District Courts Sheriffs Courts High Court of Justiciary (very serious

criminal cases + appeals from lower courts)

Court of Session (civil cases)

Treaty of Union of 1707 guaranteed the Scottish legal system.

Original jurisdiction District Courts Sheriffs Courts High Court of Justiciary (very serious

criminal cases + appeals from lower courts)

Court of Session (civil cases)

Great Britain: Supreme CourtGreat Britain: Supreme Court In giving effect to rights contained in the

European Convention on Human Rights, The Court must take account of any decision of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

An individual contending that his Convention rights have not been respected by a decision of a United Kingdom court (including The Supreme Court) against which he has no domestic recourse may bring a claim against the United Kingdom before the European Court of Human Rights.

In giving effect to rights contained in the European Convention on Human Rights, The Court must take account of any decision of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

An individual contending that his Convention rights have not been respected by a decision of a United Kingdom court (including The Supreme Court) against which he has no domestic recourse may bring a claim against the United Kingdom before the European Court of Human Rights.


Under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (article 267), The Court must refer to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg any question of European Union law, where the answer is not clear and is necessary for it to give judgment.

Under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (article 267), The Court must refer to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg any question of European Union law, where the answer is not clear and is necessary for it to give judgment.

Political Culture and LegitimacyPolitical Culture and Legitimacy Evidenced by readiness of British

people to comply with basic political laws

Not related to economic calculations

Symbols of common past as major determinants of legitimacy

Habit and tradition

Evidenced by readiness of British people to comply with basic political laws

Not related to economic calculations

Symbols of common past as major determinants of legitimacy

Habit and tradition


British Political CultureBritish Political Culture The politics of protest: toward an uncivic culture?

growing unrest in 1970s Northern Ireland a battlefield Urban race riots Radicalization of unions in face of growing

unemployment and economic decline Renewed activism of anti-nuclear, anti-war

movements polarization of politics and alienation of the

center

The politics of protest: toward an uncivic culture? growing unrest in 1970s

Northern Ireland a battlefield Urban race riots Radicalization of unions in face of growing

unemployment and economic decline Renewed activism of anti-nuclear, anti-war

movements polarization of politics and alienation of the

center


The civic culture holds Dangers of protest were fleeting Economic recovery of the 1980s

eased many problems skepticism toward politicians

grew

The civic culture holds Dangers of protest were fleeting Economic recovery of the 1980s

eased many problems skepticism toward politicians

grew


Interest groups Trades Union Council and

Confederation of British Industries are dominant peak associations

Lobbying must be done at highest levels where bills are drafted

Interest groups Trades Union Council and

Confederation of British Industries are dominant peak associations

Lobbying must be done at highest levels where bills are drafted


The Conservatives Traditionally pragmatic politicians Historically practiced “noblesse oblige” Elitist and effective party organization Opening organization to more democratic

processes led to Thatcher’s election Since Thatcher, party has struggled to find

success Benefitted from “Labour fatigue” in 2010

Coalition with Lib-Dems Challenged by anti-immigrant & anti-EU parties

The Conservatives Traditionally pragmatic politicians Historically practiced “noblesse oblige” Elitist and effective party organization Opening organization to more democratic

processes led to Thatcher’s election Since Thatcher, party has struggled to find

success Benefitted from “Labour fatigue” in 2010

Coalition with Lib-Dems Challenged by anti-immigrant & anti-EU parties


Labour Began as alliance of unions, socialists, and

cooperative associations in the early 20th century

Led by pragmatic politicians for 70 years Economic crisis and New Left activists led

to leadership by party’s left wing Leaders more interested in electoral

success than ideology were chosen in mid-‘80s

New Labour, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and younger, more moderate leaders took over in mid-1990s

Labour Began as alliance of unions, socialists, and

cooperative associations in the early 20th century

Led by pragmatic politicians for 70 years Economic crisis and New Left activists led

to leadership by party’s left wing Leaders more interested in electoral

success than ideology were chosen in mid-‘80s

New Labour, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and younger, more moderate leaders took over in mid-1990s


The Liberal Democrats Product of 1987 merger of Liberal and

Social Democratic parties Plurality elections prevent it from winning

as many seats as their percentage of national vote would seem to entitle it

Currently challenging the Conservatives as second-largest party

Minor parties

The Liberal Democrats Product of 1987 merger of Liberal and

Social Democratic parties Plurality elections prevent it from winning

as many seats as their percentage of national vote would seem to entitle it

Currently challenging the Conservatives as second-largest party

Minor parties


Central Authority and Decentralized Delivery of Policies From Trust to Contract:

Civil service has relied on trust in delivering policies

Government buying from private sector The Contingency of Influence:

Theory of British government is centralist.

All roads lead to Downing Street Influence varies with problem

From Trust to Contract: Civil service has relied on trust in

delivering policies Government buying from private sector

The Contingency of Influence: Theory of British government is

centralist. All roads lead to Downing Street Influence varies with problem


chapter eight politics in britain copyright © 2012, 2010, 2008 pearson education, inc. all rights...

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