Evaluate the extent to which the cabinet can act as a check on prime ministerial power

?
  • Created by: wanjikar
  • Created on: 28-05-23 15:49
View mindmap
  • Evaluate the extent to which the cabinet can act as a check on prime ministerial power
    • Yes, can check the PM
      • can overrule the PM
        • 2019, Johnson faced a number of 'rebellions' or cabinet overrulings over Brexit
        • can rebel against the PM's views
      • PM can be removed by cabinet
        • Blair removed by cabinet in 2007 as a result of momentum in the party for a new leadership and to avoid further party divisions
        • can drive a PM out of power by refusing to support them in public
      • divided party reduces PM's control
        • Major led a divided government (1992-97) so struggled to pass legislation
    • No, can't check the PM
      • PM is understood as the govt leader by the public
        • During Covid, Johnson was looked to as the government leader when it came to making decisions
        • cabinet can only act as a check on prime ministerial power due to his greater authority as a result of public perceptions
      • PM has patronage power
        • Thatcher used her patronage powers to dismiss the 'wets' in her cabinet
      • chairs cabinet and controls agenda
        • Blair extended his control over cabinet by reducing the time he met and discussed policy - 'sofa politics'
        • PM retains control over the agenda, meetings and the time that the president spends with cabinet

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Government & Politics resources:

See all Government & Politics resources »See all The PM and the Executive resources »