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Influences on Parliament (Political Influence (Definition: an organised…
Influences on Parliament
Political Influence
Definition: an organised group of people with similar political aims and opinions, who seek to influence public policy by getting candidates elected to public office.
- Influence
- Parties write policies in manifesto
- When elected= introduce laws into Government
- Manifestos gain votes
- Can make laws during and up to 5 years of being elected
- Announced in the Queen's speech
Advantages
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House of Commons have a majority vote, so most of their laws will be passed
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Disadvantages
If elected in, don't have to follow manifestos
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Lobbyists
Definition: when a person tries to persuade individual MPs to support their case through meeting them in the House of Commons lobby
- Influence
Mostly done by professional lobbyists, paid to perform the task on behalf of business, trade associations or charities. Usually ex-civil servants with personal contacts to those in power.
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Pressure Groups
Definition: organised group seeking to influence the Government to protect or advance a cause/interest.
- Influence
- Cause Groups: open membership from the public, promote a cause
- Interest/Sectional Groups: open to certain individuals
- Outsider Groups: often take action that the Gov disapproves of. Some use wealth to promote their cause
- Insider Groups: close links with the Gov & MPs. Give advice & are consulted prior to legislation changes that may affect them
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The Law Commission
Definition: a statutory independent body created by the Law Commissions Act 1965 to keep the law of England and Wales under review, and recommend reform where needed.
- Influence
- Topics can be referred by the Lord Chancellor on behalf of the Government
- Publishes consultation paper (current laws, issues, reforms, law explanations in other countries etc)
- Issues a final report (research conclusion)
- Often attach a draft bill to go before Parliament
- Codification: bring together law on one topic into one act
- Repeal: identify old acts that are no longer used
Advantages
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Whole areas of law can be considered, not just small issues
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Disadvantages
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LC have to wait for Parliament to reform the Act, which can be very slow
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