ThinkRankWhy Do We Need a Parliament?
A parliament represents citizens, makes laws, controls public money, debates policy, and holds the executive accountable. Elections create representation, but democracy also requires questioning, opposition, committees, transparency, and participation between elections.
Learning Objectives
- •Explain representation
- •Explain law-making and money
- •Explain accountability
Key Concepts
Representation
Members of Parliament represent constituencies and political ideas, though representation is never perfect or automatic.
Law-making and money
Parliament debates bills, approves taxation and expenditure, and examines how public resources are used.
Accountability
Questions, debates, committees, motions, media, and opposition scrutiny make the government explain its actions.
Terminology
Historical Insight
Question Hour
Members can ask ministers for information, bringing local problems and policy failures into public view.
Standing committee
Committees can examine bills and departmental work in detail beyond the limited time of a full debate.
Quick Check
Why are elections not enough for democracy?
What does Parliament do with the budget?
Why is an opposition important?
How to use this lesson
Read the overview first, then explain the main idea in your own words before checking the key concepts. Use the quick-check questions without looking at the answer. For examination preparation, verify dates, definitions, and syllabus requirements against your official textbook and school or examination-board guidance.