The concept of ministerial responsibility (Edexcel A-Level Politics): Flashcards

Ministers accountable to Parliament for conduct & dept actions

Responsible for all actions, including those of civil servants

Must uphold highest standards in professional & private life

Must be accurate & truthful; knowingly misleading requires resignation

Home Sec resigned over Windrush scandal dept failings

Health Sec resigned after breaching COVID-19 distancing rules

Education Sec faced calls to resign over grading algorithm

Breached ministerial code but did not resign

Parties at 10 Downing St during COVID lockdowns, hit Johnson

Usually results in resignation

Media scrutiny & public opinion amplify calls for resignation

Didn't resign despite receiving fines for breaking lockdown