Government and Elections Flashcards
6 cards from real CANADIAN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Government and Elections flashcards as text
Under the Canadian Constitution, which level of government has exclusive jurisdiction over unemployment insurance?
Answer: Federal government
Unemployment insurance (now called Employment Insurance) falls under exclusive federal jurisdiction following the Constitution Act, 1940, which transferred this power from the provinces to the federal government via a constitutional amendment.
A federal bill has passed the House of Commons and the Senate. What is the final step before it becomes law?
Answer: Royal Assent granted by the Governor General
Royal Assent, granted by the Governor General on behalf of the Crown, is the final constitutional step that transforms a bill into an Act of Parliament. A referendum, Supreme Court review, or Prime Ministerial signature are not required steps in the ordinary legislative process.
In a federal election, a candidate wins a riding by receiving the most votes even though no candidate received more than 50% of the total votes cast. What is this electoral system called?
Answer: First-past-the-post (plurality voting)
Canada uses first-past-the-post, also called plurality voting, where the candidate with the most votes in a riding wins — even without an outright majority. Critics argue this can allow governments to win majorities of seats with a minority of the popular vote.
Which of the following best describes the role of the Leader of the Official Opposition in Canada's parliamentary system?
Answer: To hold the government accountable by scrutinizing its policies and presenting an alternative government-in-waiting
The Leader of the Official Opposition leads the largest party not in government and serves as the primary critic of the governing party — questioning the government during Question Period, proposing alternative policies, and being prepared to form government if the current one falls.
Canada's Constitution can be amended in different ways depending on the subject matter. Which amendment formula requires the consent of Parliament AND at least seven provinces representing at least 50% of Canada's population?
Answer: The 7/50 general amending formula
The 7/50 formula (Section 38 of the Constitution Act, 1982) is the general amending formula for most constitutional changes. It requires resolutions from the federal Parliament and at least 7 of 10 provinces that together represent at least 50% of Canada's population. Some matters (e.g., the monarchy, Senate seats) require unanimity of all provinces.
A Senator in Canada is appointed to serve until what age, under current rules?
Answer: 75
Since the Constitution Act, 1965, Senators must retire at age 75. Before this amendment, Senators appointed before 1965 could serve for life. Today all Senators face mandatory retirement at 75, regardless of when they were appointed.