Government and Law Flashcards

Who presides over proceedings in the House of Lords?

Answer: The Lord Speaker

The Lord Speaker presides over debates in the House of Lords, a role introduced in 2006.

What is the purpose of the Human Rights Act 1998 in the UK?

Answer: It incorporates European Convention on Human Rights into UK law

The Human Rights Act 1998 incorporated the rights set out in the European Convention on Human Rights directly into UK domestic law.

What does 'habeas corpus' protect a person against?

Answer: Unlawful imprisonment without trial

Habeas corpus is a legal principle requiring that a person under arrest be brought before a judge, protecting against unlawful imprisonment.

Which body formally appoints judges to the UK Supreme Court?

Answer: The monarch on advice of the Lord Chancellor

Supreme Court justices are formally appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, following an independent selection process.

What is the name of the process by which the House of Lords can delay but not permanently block a bill?

Answer: The Parliament Acts

The Parliament Acts 1911 and 1949 limit the Lords' power to delay legislation, preventing them from blocking bills indefinitely.

Which of the following best describes a 'by-election' in the UK?

Answer: An election held to fill a single vacant constituency seat

A by-election is held to fill a single parliamentary seat that has become vacant, for example due to the death or resignation of an MP.

What is the main role of the Attorney General in the UK?

Answer: To act as chief legal adviser to the government

The Attorney General is the chief legal adviser to the Crown and government in England and Wales.