British Political System Overview

Introduction

• Presenter: Jill at In Viid
• Target Audience: Individuals interested in British politics or those living in the UK
• Purpose: Introductory overview of the British political system and terminology

Main Political Structure

National Parliament and Government

• Parliament: 650 Members of Parliament (MPs)
  • MPs represent different constituencies
  • Constituencies: Geographic areas where voters are registered
• Elections:
  • Held every 5 years
  • Voting for candidates representing various political parties

Political Parties

• Major Parties:
  • Conservative Party (current ruling party)
  • Labour Party (main opposition)
  • Liberal Democrats
  • UK Independence Party (UKIP)
  • Green Party
• Party Positions:
  • Use of terms "left-wing" and "right-wing"
  • Liberal Democrats: Centrists
  • Labour: Traditionally left-wing, currently more left-wing under new leadership
  • Conservatives: Right-wing
  • UKIP: Right-wing, focused on leaving the EU
  • Green: Focus on environmental issues

Government Formation

• Majority Rule:
  • Party with most seats forms the government
  • 2015: Conservatives formed the government with a majority
• Coalition Government:
  • 2010: Coalition between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats due to no clear majority
• Role of Opposition:
  • Labour Party as the opposition to balance government actions

National Parties and Independents

• MPs may also represent national parties from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland
• Existence of independent MPs

Brexit

• UKIP's Role:
  • Advocated for leaving the European Union (Brexit)
• Referendum and Outcome:
  • Referendum held, majority voted to leave the EU
  • Ongoing Brexit negotiations

Local Political Systems

Local Councils

• Structure:
  • Divided into council areas and wards
  • Elections every 4 years
  • Officials: Councillors and sometimes elected mayors
• London Specifics:
  • More than 30 local councils in London
  • London Assembly and overall mayor

Unique Political Parties

Official Monster Raving Loony Party

• Characteristics:
  • Eccentric and humorous, established in 1963
  • Founded by "Screaming Lord Sutch"
  • Popular for protest votes
• Electoral Success:
  • No parliamentary seats, occasional local council seats
  • Known for colorful costumes during elections

Conclusion

• Overview provided with vocabulary and insights into the British political system
• Further resources available on In Viid's website
• Encouragement to take a related quiz on the subject