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Using the source, evaluate the view that the principal role of backbench MPs is now to hold the government to account - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 1
Using the source, evaluate the view that the principal role of backbench MPs is now to hold the government to account. In your response you must: - compare and con... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using the source, evaluate the view that the principal role of backbench MPs is now to hold the government to account - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points from the source for the view
Answer
The source suggests that backbench MPs play an increasingly important role in holding the government to account, particularly in light of recent events surrounding Brexit. It notes that:
- Historic Defeat on Brexit: May's government faced a significant defeat in parliament, indicating backbenchers’ power to challenge the executive.
- Weakening of Whips: With whips being described as weaker, MPs can more freely represent their constituents and dissent from government positions.
- Asserting Sovereignty: The mention of backbenchers asserting parliamentary sovereignty is significant as it portrays them not just as passive supporters of the government but as active participants in holding it accountable.
Step 2
Analysis for the view
Answer
This changing dynamic suggests a shift in parliamentary power. The backbenchers' increased independence highlights their role in representing constituents, as they are less bound by party loyalty. Furthermore, the growing number of government defeats signals a more robust role for backbench MPs potentially acting as a check on the government’s powers.
Step 3
Points from the source against the view
Answer
Conversely, the source also provides points that challenge the notion that backbench MPs are primarily tasked with holding the government to account, including:
- Brexit as a One-Off Situation: The source suggests that the current environment is unique and may not reflect sustainable changes in backbenchers' roles.
- Executive Dominance: There is a concern that despite current challenges, executive dominance might return, suggesting that backbenchers’ effectiveness may be temporary.
Step 4
Analysis against the view
Answer
While it appears that backbenchers are gaining more influence, these points indicate that the lasting impact of this shift may be uncertain. If executive dominance resumes, then the role of backbenchers could revert to a more subordinate position, undermining their accountability function.
Step 5
Conclusions and judgment for the view
Answer
In conclusion, while the evidence in the source points to a more significant role for backbench MPs in holding the government to account, it cannot be generalized as the new norm. The situation surrounding Brexit may be exceptional, and future political contexts could constrain backbenchers' influence once more.