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DEMOCRACY IN THE UK

DEMOCRACY IN THE UK. The UK can be said to be democratic in that it has: . Free and Fair Elections Representative institutions – Parliament Free press and media Rule of Law Pluralistic party system operating freely Freedom for Pressure Groups Little political corruption

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DEMOCRACY IN THE UK

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  1. DEMOCRACY IN THE UK

  2. The UK can be said to be democratic in that it has: • Free and Fair Elections • Representative institutions – Parliament • Free press and media • Rule of Law • Pluralistic party system operating freely • Freedom for Pressure Groups • Little political corruption • Permanent civil service which is impartial

  3. The UK can be said to be undemocratic in that it has: • An unfair electoral system which leaves large numbers unrepresented • Many unelected people in positions of power • Over-strong executive, at expense of Parliament • No Bill of Rights • Hereditary monarchy • Prime Minister able to use royal prerogative • Unelected second chamber

  4. In Sum: • The UK operates a liberal democratic system, but with too few checks on the power of an executive that can still draw authority from an ancient royal prerogrative. • Suggested reforms could include the production of a written constitution; a change in the electoral system; and more frequent use of referendums.

  5. Referendums in the UK • Have been used infrequently • Mainly on issues of constitutional importance, such as Europe or Devolution • Since 1975, there have been only 5 referendums in the UK.

  6. Arguments in favour of referendums include: • They increase democratic participation • Can act as a check on ‘elective dictatorship’ • Are a device for resolving controversial issues, and providing unity • Help to ‘reconnect’ people with the political process • Can use traditional ballot boxes as well as electronic media for operation.

  7. Arguments against referendums include: • Undermines doctrine of parliamentary sovereignty • Over-simplifies important issues – many cannot be subjected to yes/no questions • Possible bias in questions asked • Timing of referendums can be manipulated by ruling party • Over-use could result in voter apathy • Many voters may not properly understand complex issues

  8. To conclude: • Referendums could, if used carefully, enhance the level of democratic participation in the UK • However, the balance of judgment is likely to be in favour of retaining the principles of a representative democracy, and reforming some of its mechanisms, such as the electoral system, the checks on the executive, and constitutional clarity.

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