Question 1: Describe the main functions of the UK Parliament. Include at least three key responsibilities.

Answer: The UK Parliament's main functions include making and passing laws, scrutinising the government’s work, and representing the interests of the citizens.

Question 2: Identify the two houses of Parliament in the UK and explain their primary roles.

Answer: The two houses are the House of Commons, which debates and votes on proposed laws, and the House of Lords, which reviews and suggests amendments to legislation.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'the Prime Minister's role' in the UK government. List two key responsibilities.

Answer: The Prime Minister is the head of the UK government responsible for leading the Cabinet and making major policy decisions. They also represent the UK internationally.

Question 4: Draw a simple diagram showing the relationship between the UK Parliament, the Prime Minister, and the Monarchy. Label each component clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show the Parliament at the top, with arrows pointing to the Prime Minister and the Monarchy, indicating their roles and relationships within the government structure.

Question 5: Describe how laws are made in the UK Parliament, from proposal to enactment.

Answer: Laws start as bills proposed in either house of Parliament. They are debated, possibly amended, and then must be approved by both houses. Finally, the bill is sent to the Monarch for Royal Assent, after which it becomes law.

Question 6: Explain the concept of 'checks and balances' within the UK government system.

Answer: Checks and balances ensure that no one branch of government becomes too powerful. For example, Parliament checks the Executive, and the Monarch's role is largely ceremonial, maintaining a balance of power.

Question 7: Sketch a flowchart that illustrates the process a government bill goes through before becoming law. Use arrows to show the sequence.

Answer: The flowchart should include stages: proposal (bill creation), first reading, committee stage, second reading, report stage, third reading, approval by the other house, Royal Assent, and finally, law.

Question 8: Discuss the importance of political parties in the UK government system. How do they influence decision-making?

Answer: Political parties organize candidates and policies, influence voting, and form governments. They shape legislation and policy decisions based on their ideologies and priorities.

Question 9: Identify one way in which the UK government is accountable to the public.

Answer: The UK government is accountable through elections, where citizens can vote for their representatives and hold them responsible for their actions.

Question 10: Explain what is meant by 'devolution' in the context of UK politics, and give an example of a devolved government.

Answer: Devolution refers to the transfer of powers from the UK Parliament to regional governments. An example is the Scottish Parliament, which has authority over certain domestic issues like education and health.