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Evaluate the view that since 2010 the executive has dominated Parliament - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 2
Evaluate the view that since 2010 the executive has dominated Parliament. In your answer you should draw on relevant knowledge and understanding of the study of Com... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the view that since 2010 the executive has dominated Parliament - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points in agreement
Answer
Since 2010, there has been significant discourse on the executive's dominance over Parliament in the UK. Key points in favor of this view include:
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Structural dominance: The nature of the UK constitution allows for a fusion of powers, which means the executive retains considerable control over parliamentary proceedings.
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Devolution: Scotland and Wales have gained additional powers, yet the dominance of the executive has meant that their ability to influence the UK Parliament remains limited. This is a sign that the executive’s control persists despite this devolution.
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Challenges limited: While devolved assemblies have obtained powers since 2010, both Scotland and Wales have maintained a subordinate position regarding Westminster, suggesting that Parliament many times can be sidelined by executive decisions.
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Suspended functions: The suspension of Parliament in January 2017 and the resulting implications indicates that the executive can maneuver effectively to bypass parliamentary scrutiny when necessary.
Step 2
Points in disagreement
Answer
Conversely, arguments against the view of executive dominance can be made:
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Increased assertiveness of Parliament: Post-2010, Parliament has become more assertive, particularly during the coalition government (2010-15) and minority governments (2015-2019), where backbench MPs have more power to challenge the government. Tools like urgent questions and parliamentary debates have enhanced scrutiny.
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Coalition dynamics: The coalition government introduced checks against executive dominance, as power was shared across parties, which meant that MPs had more leverage to hold the executive accountable.
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Party divisions: Discontent within parties, particularly during the Conservative Party’s leadership in recent years, has revealed cracks in the executive's control. MPs have sometimes revolted against the party line, showcasing a shift in the dynamic between Parliament and the executive.
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Parliamentary structure: Changes in the parliamentary committee structures have also improved the ability of Parliament to have independent oversight and challenge the executive effectively.