Round 1
Is the United Kingdom a unitary or federal state?
The United Kingdom is a unitary state.
Who is the Head of State in the United Kingdom?
The monarch (currently King Charles III)
How many houses does the UK Parliament have, and what are they called?
Two: the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
Name two main political parties in the United Kingdom.
The Conservative Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrat Party, SNP
What is a vote of no confidence?
A parliamentary vote where MPs decide if they still support the Prime Minister and government.
What does it mean for the UK to be a unitary state?
Power is centralized: the national government holds supreme authority, although some powers are devolved to regions
Who is the Head of Government in the United Kingdom?
The Prime Minister.
What are the main functions of the House of Commons and the House of Lords?
The House of Commons makes and passes laws, while the House of Lords reviews legislation and suggests amendments.
What is one key ideological stance of the Conservative Party?
Generally advocates for free-market policies and traditional values.
What happens if the government loses a vote of no confidence?
The Prime Minister must resign, or new elections may be called.
Name a region in the UK with devolved powers
Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland
Who is was the head of state?
Rishi Sunak
How are Members of Parliament (MPs) elected?
MPs are elected in general elections through a “first-past-the-post” voting system in single-member constituencies.
What party is known for advocating Scottish independence?
The Scottish National Party (SNP)
In what day do the PMQ's happen?
Wednesdays!!
How does devolution (unitary organization) in the UK differ from federalism in countries like the United States?
Devolution in the UK allows regions to exercise certain powers, but Parliament retains ultimate authority
How is the Prime Minister of the UK chosen?
The Prime Minister is the leader of the majority party in the House of Commons or of a coalition, chosen by party members and formally appointed by the monarch.
What are Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs)?
A weekly session where MPs ask the Prime Minister questions, held in the House of Commons.
What is one key ideological stance of the Labour Party?
Traditionally favors workers' rights.
What is the role of the Cabinet in the UK government?
The Cabinet is a group of senior ministers chosen by the Prime Minister to help make major government decisions and set policies
Can devolved powers be revoked by the central government in the UK?
Yes, Parliament retains the power to revoke or amend devolved powers
Name one key difference between the roles of the Prime Minister and the monarch
The Prime Minister leads the government and makes policy decisions, while the monarch serves as a ceremonial Head of State with limited political power
What is a coalition government, and when might it occur?
A coalition government forms when no single party has a majority in Parliament, requiring parties to collaborate to govern.
Describe the Liberal Democrats’ main political stance
They are a centrist party; The Liberal Democrats stand firm on seven core values: liberty, equality, democracy, community, human rights, internationalism, and environmentalism
What is a very common dish of the UK?
Fish and Chips