The government

British
Institutions
THE MONARCH
is the official head of state; has mostly representative functions
THE GOVERNMENT
The Prime Minister
is the head of the government; is the leader of the party with the majority of seats in the House of Commons
The Cabinet
About 20 ministers; determines government policies
Non-Cabinet Ministers
PARLIAMENT

The House of Commons (about 650 elected MPs) makes laws; discusses political problems

the House of Lords (over 800 permanent non-elected members – peers and life peers) Examines and revises bills from the House of Commons; can delay bills for one year

THE PEOPLE
(all men and women over 18)
appoints
appoints
chooses
chooses
Is responsible to
elect

What political system does the United Kingdom belong to?

• What political system does the United Kingdom belong to?
• Where are its laws made?
• What are the two chambers of the British Parliament?
• What functions do the members of the House of Commons perform?
• What are the functions of the House of Lords?
• Which of the two chambers of the British Parliament is elected by the people?

How Much Do You Know?

What about the government of Britain? Can you name its functions?

• What about the government of Britain? Can you name its functions?
• Who can become Prime Minister?
• Who is the British government responsible to?
• What branch of power does each of them represent?

- the Monarch

- the Government

- Parliament

Do You Know?
Britain is administered from the Palace of Westminster in London. This is also known as the Houses of Parliament. Parliament is the most important authority in Britain. It represents the legislative branch of power. Parliament first met in the 13th century.
Parliament is made up of two chambers - the House of Commons and the House of Lords.