Key institution of the Executive, not prescribed by Law but constitutional convention.

In Reality: GG does not unilaterally use these powers, and following constitution convention, acts on the advice of Crown Ministers.

Cabinet effectively controlled Parliament. A powerful Prime Minister could exert personal control over Cabinet and this over the nation. E.G. FITS V MULDOON. Cabinet could also be 'captured' by a government agency, which could then control the rest of the executive.

It is very unlikely that one political party will gain a majority in Parliament, so compromise is essential. Most of this compromise occurs with a coalition and support parties. While the ruling political party may have solid supply agreements with minor parties, these agreements are often the result of extensive concessions. Radical policy agendas, such as some of the economic measures implemented between 1975 and 1993, tend to share ff likely coalition partners an, therefore, less likely to be successfully implemented under MMP.

Primary role: making policy. Cabinet largely determines what bills make it into Legislature. Also controls most delegated legislation. Ministers are directly responsible to parliament for their actions and the departments they head, known as a responsible government and collective ministerial responsibility, essential element of Westminster Democracy.

Secondary role: confirming all important government decision: cabinet considers all matters relating to political policy, government finance and new legislation, select committee recommendations, controversial national issues, important public appointments, international treaties and all issues relating to specific ministerial portfolios. Before matters even make it into Cabinet they are discussed in small groups called cabinet committees.