Chapter 5: The UK Government, the Law and Your Role

Chapter 5 Overview: The UK’s Democratic System and Institutions

Chapter 5 explores how the democratic system in the UK has evolved, detailing the main constitutional bodies involved. It explains the King’s role as head of state, the structure and functions of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, as well as the responsibilities of The Speaker, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet. This chapter also covers how elections work, how you can contact elected representatives, and outlines the powers of the Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament, and Northern Ireland Assembly.

Later, the chapter introduces international organizations the UK is part of, including the Commonwealth, Council of Europe, United Nations, and NATO.

Additionally, it reviews the basics of criminal and civil law with examples, explains the police’s role, the UK’s court system, and their respective duties. It also highlights the key principles of the European Convention on Human Rights and their application in UK law. The chapter concludes with an overview of the UK’s tax system, including income tax and national insurance, and explains the legal requirements for driving in the UK.

Finally, it discusses the role of British citizens and residents and various ways to get involved in supporting local communities.

The UK’s Parliamentary Democracy

The UK operates as a parliamentary democracy with the monarch serving as the ceremonial head of state. This section introduces the democratic institutions and explains how citizens participate in the democratic process.

The Growth of British Democracy

Democracy means that every adult has a voice, either by voting directly or electing representatives to decide on their behalf. At the start of the 19th century, the UK’s democracy was limited: only men over 21 who owned property could vote.

Throughout the 19th century, voting rights expanded, and political parties began including ordinary men and women. The Chartists, active in the 1830s and 1840s, campaigned for key reforms like universal male suffrage, secret ballots, and paid MPs. Although their campaign initially failed, by 1918 many reforms were implemented, extending voting rights to women over 30, and by 1928 to all adults over 21. The voting age was lowered to 18 in 1969.

The British Constitution

A constitution is a set of rules guiding how a country is governed, including institutions and laws that balance power. The UK’s constitution is unique because it is “unwritten,” meaning it’s not contained in a single document but consists of laws, conventions, and traditions developed over centuries. This unwritten nature offers flexibility and stability compared to written constitutions.

Main Constitutional Institutions

Key components of the UK government include:

• The Monarchy

• Parliament (House of Commons and House of Lords)

• The Prime Minister

• The Cabinet

• The Judiciary (courts)

• The Police

• The Civil Service

• Local Government

There are also devolved governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland with powers to legislate on certain issues.

The Monarchy

King Charles III is the UK’s head of state and also serves as monarch for other Commonwealth countries. The UK is a constitutional monarchy, meaning the monarch’s powers are mostly ceremonial. The King appoints the Prime Minister, usually the leader of the party with the most MPs, and meets regularly with them to advise and support.

King Charles III ascended the throne in 2022, following Queen Elizabeth II. His heir is Prince William, the Prince of Wales.

The King’s duties include opening parliamentary sessions with a speech outlining government plans, representing the UK internationally, and maintaining national unity and tradition.

The National Anthem and Oath of Allegiance

The UK’s national anthem is “God Save the King,” played at significant national events and royal ceremonies. New British citizens pledge allegiance to the King during citizenship ceremonies with an oath or affirmation.

System of Government

The UK is divided into parliamentary constituencies, each electing one Member of Parliament (MP) in general elections held at least every five years. The party with the majority of MPs forms the government. If no party wins a clear majority, parties may form coalitions.

The House of Commons

The House of Commons is the more powerful chamber because its members are directly elected. MPs represent local areas, help create laws, debate national issues, and oversee the government’s actions.

The House of Lords

Members of the House of Lords, called peers, are mostly appointed for life and do not represent constituencies. Their role is to review and suggest changes to legislation passed by the Commons, offering expertise and ensuring laws are well-crafted. Although the Commons can override the Lords, this rarely happens.

The Speaker

The Speaker chairs debates in the House of Commons, ensuring rules are followed and maintaining order. The Speaker is impartial and is elected by MPs in a secret ballot. They also represent Parliament on formal occasions.

Elections in the UK

General elections select MPs through a “first past the post” system: the candidate with the most votes in each constituency wins. By-elections happen if an MP resigns or dies. The party with the majority forms the government.

How to Contact Your Elected Representatives

You can reach MPs and members of devolved parliaments by mail, phone, or in person during “surgeries” — local meetings advertised in newspapers. Contact details are available at libraries and online at www.parliament.uk.

Summary: What You Should Know

• How UK democracy has evolved

• What a constitution is and why the UK’s is unique

• The monarch’s role

• Functions of the House of Commons and House of Lords

• The Speaker’s responsibilities

• How MPs and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are elected

The Government

The Prime Minister

The Prime Minister (PM) is the head of the ruling political party. This person chooses cabinet members (explained below) and oversees several key public appointments. The PM’s official residence is 10 Downing Street in central London, close to the Houses of Parliament. Additionally, the Prime Minister has a country residence called Chequers, located outside London.

The Prime Minister can be replaced if members of the ruling party decide to do so, or if the PM chooses to step down. Typically, the PM resigns if their party loses a General Election.

The Cabinet

The Prime Minister selects about 20 senior Members of Parliament (MPs) to serve as ministers, each responsible for a government department. Some key positions include:

• Chancellor of the Exchequer – manages the country’s economy

• Home Secretary – oversees crime, policing, and immigration

• Foreign Secretary – handles international relations

• Other Secretaries of State – manage areas like education, health, and defense

These ministers form the cabinet, which meets weekly to decide on government policies. Many of these decisions must be discussed or approved by Parliament.

Each department also has other ministers, known as Ministers of State or Parliamentary Under-Secretaries, who focus on specific parts of their department’s responsibilities.

The Opposition

The party with the second-highest number of seats in the House of Commons is called the opposition. The opposition leader typically becomes Prime Minister if their party wins the next General Election.

This leader challenges the government by pointing out its flaws and weaknesses, especially during the weekly Prime Minister’s Questions when Parliament is in session. The opposition also appoints ‘shadow ministers’ who form the shadow cabinet to scrutinize government actions and propose alternative policies.

The Party System

Anyone aged 18 or older can run for MP, but candidates usually need to be nominated by a major political party to have a realistic chance of winning. Major parties include the Conservative Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, and regional parties representing Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Some MPs stand as independents, representing specific local interests.

Political parties actively recruit members, encourage public participation, seek donations, and organize election campaigns. They have local branches and hold annual conferences to shape policy.

Pressure and lobby groups also influence government decisions. These groups range from business representatives like the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) to campaign groups focusing on environmental or human rights issues such as Greenpeace and Liberty.

The Civil Service

Civil servants support ministers in creating and enforcing policies while providing public services. They are non-political professionals chosen based on merit. Civil servants are committed to values such as integrity, honesty, impartiality, and political neutrality.

Anyone can apply to join the civil service through a standard recruitment process similar to other UK jobs.

Local Government

Local areas like towns, cities, and rural communities are governed by elected councils or local authorities. Some regions have both district and county councils, while larger cities usually have one authority.

Local councils manage many services, funded by central government and local taxes.

Many councils appoint a mayor as the ceremonial head, while in some towns the mayor also acts as the leader of the local administration. London consists of 33 local authorities, coordinated by the Greater London Authority and the Mayor of London.

Local council elections typically take place every May, with candidates often representing political parties.

Devolved Administrations

Since 1997, powers have been transferred from the UK central government to regional bodies in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to allow local control over specific issues.

• The Welsh Senedd (formerly Assembly) and Scottish Parliament were created in 1999.

• Northern Ireland has its own Assembly, though it has been suspended at times.

The UK government retains control over defense, foreign affairs, social security, and taxation, but devolved administrations manage areas like education and health. Each devolved government has its own civil servants.

The Welsh Government

Based in Cardiff, the Senedd has 60 members elected every four years by proportional representation. Members can speak in Welsh or English, and all documents are bilingual.

The Senedd can legislate on 21 subjects, including education, health, economic development, and housing. Since 2011, it can pass laws without needing UK Parliament approval.

The Senedd building opened in 2006.

The Scottish Parliament

Established in 1999 in Edinburgh, the Scottish Parliament has 129 members elected via proportional representation.

It can create laws on many issues not reserved for the UK Parliament, such as civil law, health, education, planning, and some taxation powers.

The Scottish Parliament building opened in 2004.

The Northern Ireland Assembly

Northern Ireland had a Parliament until 1972, but the current Assembly was set up in 1998 following the Good Friday Agreement. It features power-sharing among parties.

The Assembly has 90 members, elected by proportional representation, who govern on issues including education, agriculture, environment, health, and social services.

The UK government can suspend devolved assemblies, which has occurred in Northern Ireland during political disagreements.

The Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast.

The Media and Government

Parliament sessions are broadcast live and recorded in official documents called Hansard, available in libraries and online at www.parliament.uk.

The UK enjoys a free press, with newspapers, TV, radio, and online media providing political news. While newspapers are independent of government control, some have strong political stances and try to influence public opinion.

Broadcast media are legally required to offer balanced coverage and equal time for different political viewpoints.

Voter Eligibility and Registration

Who Can Vote?

Since 1928, the UK has had universal adult suffrage. The voting age was lowered to 18 in 1969. Eligible voters include UK-born or naturalized citizens, plus residents from the Commonwealth and the Republic of Ireland.

The Electoral Register

To vote in any election, your name must be on the electoral register. You can register by contacting your local council’s electoral office or visiting www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.

The register is updated annually in autumn. All households receive a form to list eligible voters living there.

Northern Ireland uses a different ‘individual registration’ system requiring each voter to register separately.

The register is public but access is supervised and available at local offices and some public places.

Voting Locations and Process

Voting takes place at polling stations (called polling places in Scotland). Before elections, registered voters receive a poll card with their polling location and election date.

On election day, polling stations are open from 7 am to 10 pm. Voters must present photo ID, then receive a ballot paper to mark privately before placing it in the ballot box.

If unable to attend in person, voters can apply for a postal ballot to vote by mail.

Standing for Public Office

Anyone 18 or older from the UK, Ireland, or the Commonwealth can stand for election, with some exceptions such as active military personnel, civil servants, and people convicted of certain crimes.

Members of the House of Lords cannot run for the House of Commons but can seek other public offices.

Visiting Parliament and Devolved Assemblies

UK Parliament

Visitors can watch debates from public galleries in both Houses at the Palace of Westminster. Entry is free but can require queuing or advance booking through your MP.

More details are available at www.parliament.uk.

Northern Ireland Assembly

The Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast. Visitors can arrange tours or contact their MLA for access via the Assembly’s education service or website.

Scottish Parliament

Located at Holyrood in Edinburgh, visitors can book tours and find information through the Scottish Parliament visitor services.

The Senedd

Wales’s Senedd building in Cardiff Bay offers guided tours and public gallery seating, bookable via the Senedd website or phone.

Summary:

• Understand the roles of the Prime Minister, Cabinet, Opposition, and Shadow Cabinet

• Know the main political parties and their functions

• Recognize the influence of pressure groups and the civil service

• Learn about local government and devolved administrations

• Know how to register, vote, and stand for office

• Explore how the media covers politics and how to visit government buildings

The Commonwealth

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of nations that collaborate to promote democracy and development. Most members were formerly part of the British Empire, although a few countries without such a history have joined as well.

The King serves as the ceremonial leader of the Commonwealth, which currently includes 54 member countries. While the Commonwealth cannot enforce laws on its members, it can suspend membership if necessary. Its foundation rests on shared principles such as democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

Member Countries of the Commonwealth

Some of the member states include:

• Antigua and Barbuda

• Bangladesh

• Botswana

• Canada

• Fiji

• Grenada

• Jamaica

• Lesotho

• Maldives

• Mozambique

• New Zealand

• Papua New Guinea

• Seychelles

• Solomon Islands

• St Kitts and Nevis

• Swaziland

• Trinidad and Tobago

• United Kingdom

• Australia

• Barbados

• Brunei Darussalam

• Cyprus

• The Gambia

• Guyana

• Kenya

• Malawi

• Malta

• Namibia

• Nigeria

• Rwanda

• Sierra Leone

• South Africa

• St Lucia

• Tanzania

• Tuvalu

• Vanuatu

• The Bahamas

• Belize

• Cameroon

• Dominica

• Ghana

• India

• Kiribati

• Malaysia

• Mauritius

• Nauru

• Pakistan

• Samoa

• Singapore

• Sri Lanka

• St Vincent and the Grenadines

• Tonga

• Uganda

• Zambia

The Council of Europe

The Council of Europe is made up of 47 countries, including the UK, and focuses on protecting and promoting human rights within its member states. Although it cannot create laws, it develops key conventions such as the European Convention on Human Rights, which safeguards fundamental freedoms across Europe.

The United Nations

The UK is a member of the United Nations (UN), a global organization with over 190 countries working together to maintain peace and prevent conflict. The UN Security Council, which has 15 members, including the UK as a permanent member, plays a key role in managing international crises and maintaining security worldwide.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

The UK is also part of NATO, an alliance of North American and European nations committed to mutual defense. NATO’s primary goal is to protect its members and maintain peace across the region.

Understanding the Law in the UK

Knowing and obeying the law is essential for everyone living in the UK. The legal system applies equally to all, regardless of background. While the UK welcomes people from all over the world, everyone must respect its laws — actions acceptable elsewhere might be illegal here. Failure to respect the law can affect residency status.

Types of Law

There are two main categories of law in the UK:

• Criminal Law: Deals with crimes investigated by authorities like the police, with penalties decided by courts. Examples include carrying weapons, drug offenses, racial crimes, selling tobacco or alcohol to minors, smoking bans in public places, and alcohol consumption restrictions in public.

• Civil Law: Addresses disputes between individuals or organizations, such as housing issues, consumer rights, employment disagreements, and debt.

The Role of the Police

UK police forces protect people and property, maintain public order, and investigate crimes. Police officers must act lawfully and ethically. Public cooperation is expected to help prevent crime. If arrested, you have the right to know the reason and seek legal advice. Complaints about police misconduct can be made through official channels.

Terrorism and Extremism

The UK faces various terrorist threats, especially from groups like Al Qa’ida and Northern Ireland-related organizations. Extremism, whether religious or political, threatens public safety. Anyone suspecting extremist recruitment should contact local police.

The Judiciary and Courts

Judges interpret laws and ensure fair trials. Courts are independent from the government. Legal disputes can involve criminal cases heard in Magistrates’ or Crown Courts and civil cases dealt with in County or High Courts. There are also youth courts for offenders aged 10 to 17.

Criminal Courts Overview

• Magistrates’ and Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle minor offenses.

• Crown and Sheriff Courts: Try serious crimes with a judge and jury.

• Youth Courts: Deal with young offenders confidentially.

Civil Courts Overview

County Courts manage disputes over money, family matters, contracts, and injuries. Smaller claims can be resolved informally through a streamlined small claims process to avoid costly legal fees.

Legal Advice

Solicitors are professional lawyers who provide legal guidance and representation. It’s important to choose solicitors experienced in the relevant area of law. Citizens Advice and law societies can help find suitable legal experts.

Fundamental Rights and Freedoms

The UK respects individual rights rooted in historic documents like Magna Carta and the Human Rights Act 1998, which incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights. These rights include freedom of expression, fair trials, and protection from torture or slavery.

Equal Opportunities

UK laws prohibit discrimination based on age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and other factors. Support is available for those facing discrimination through dedicated organizations.

Domestic Violence

Domestic abuse is a serious criminal offense in the UK. Victims can seek help from solicitors, support organizations, and the police. Emergency services and helplines are available for immediate assistance.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM is illegal in the UK. It is a criminal offense to perform or facilitate FGM, including taking someone abroad for the procedure.

Forced Marriage

Forced marriage, where consent is absent, is against the law. Protective court orders exist to safeguard individuals at risk. Breaching these orders can lead to imprisonment.

Taxation in the UK

Residents pay income tax on earnings from jobs, self-employment, pensions, and investments. Taxes fund public services like healthcare, education, and defense. Most employees pay taxes through the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, while self-employed individuals must file tax returns.

National Insurance

In the UK, nearly everyone in paid employment—including self-employed individuals—is required to pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs). These contributions fund important public services like the state pension and the National Health Service (NHS).

For employees, NICs are automatically deducted by their employer from their salary. Self-employed workers, however, are responsible for paying their own NICs.

Failing to pay enough National Insurance can result in losing access to some contributory benefits, such as Jobseeker’s Allowance or a full state pension. Additionally, certain statutory payments like maternity pay may not be available to workers who do not earn enough, including some part-time employees.

More detailed information on National Insurance Contributions can be found at https://www.gov.uk/national-insurance.

Getting a National Insurance Number

A National Insurance number is a unique identifier that ensures your contributions and taxes are correctly recorded under your name. In the UK, young people typically receive their National Insurance number shortly before their 16th birthday.

Non-UK nationals living and working or planning to work in the UK must obtain a National Insurance number, although you can start working before receiving it. To apply, call the National Insurance application line. You will receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) inviting you to an interview at a Jobcentre Plus, along with a list of identity documents to bring.

For full details on how to apply, visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number. You may need to attend an interview, where you’ll be asked to present proof of identity and your right to work in the UK. Note that having a National Insurance number alone does not prove your work eligibility to an employer.

Driving

In the UK, you must be at least 17 years old to drive a car or motorcycle on public roads, and a valid driving licence is required. To obtain a licence, you must pass a driving test assessing both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Mopeds can be ridden from age 16, while driving larger vehicles requires additional age and testing conditions.

Your driving licence remains valid until age 70, after which it must be renewed every three years.

In Northern Ireland, new drivers must display an ‘R’ (restricted) plate for one year post-licensing.

If you hold a driving licence from another country, you can drive in the UK for up to 12 months. After this period, you must obtain a full UK licence. Check your eligibility to drive with a foreign licence at www.gov.uk/driving-nongb-licence.

Vehicles owned by UK residents must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), pay annual vehicle tax, and hold valid insurance. If the vehicle is not in use and kept off public roads, a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) must be submitted to DVLA. Driving without insurance or MOT (for vehicles over three years old) is illegal. More details are available at www.gov.uk.

Check That You Understand

• The basics of UK law

• The illegality of domestic violence, FGM, and forced marriage

• How income tax and National Insurance work

• Driving regulations in the UK

Your Role in the Community

Settling in the UK or becoming a British citizen brings both responsibilities and opportunities. Everyone can contribute to their community’s wellbeing. This section outlines key responsibilities and ways you can actively participate to improve your neighborhood.

Values and Responsibilities

Despite the UK’s diversity, certain shared values unite its people, including:

• Obeying and respecting the law

• Recognizing and respecting others’ rights

• Treating people fairly

• Acting responsibly

• Protecting your family

• Preserving the environment

• Ensuring equality regardless of sex, race, religion, age, disability, class, or sexual orientation

• Working to support yourself and your family

• Helping others

• Voting in local and national elections

Embracing these values will help you become a fully engaged citizen.

Being a Good Neighbour

When you move to a new area, introduce yourself to your neighbors. Building relationships helps you feel part of the community and can provide practical support, like pet care or local advice.

Avoid conflicts by respecting neighbors’ privacy, minimizing noise, keeping your garden tidy, and placing bins out only on collection days.

Getting Involved in Local Activities

Volunteering is a great way to integrate, make friends, and improve your community. It supports responsible citizenship and helps others around you.

How You Can Support Your Community

Jury Service

If you’re on the electoral register and aged between 18 and 70 (or up to 75 in England and Wales), you might be randomly selected for jury duty.

Helping in Schools

Parents can support schools by assisting in classrooms, helping with fundraising events, or joining parent-teacher associations (PTAs). This also provides a chance to meet other community members.

School Governors

Governors help guide local schools by setting strategy, ensuring accountability, and monitoring performance. Anyone aged 18 or older can apply. For more information, visit www.governorsforschools.org.uk.

In England, parents and community members can also apply to open free schools via https://www.gov.uk/set-up-free-school.

Supporting Political Parties

Joining a political party allows you to support causes you believe in and participate in elections. Members often campaign during elections by canvassing voters. British citizens can also run for local or national office, with some eligibility extended to Irish and Commonwealth citizens.

Find party membership info on their websites.

Helping with Local Services

Many local services, like hospitals and youth projects, welcome volunteers. You can also volunteer with the police as a special constable or apply to become a magistrate. Check local media or www.gov.uk for opportunities.

Blood and Organ Donation

Blood donations save lives and take about an hour. Register to donate blood at:

• England and North Wales: www.blood.co.uk

• Wales: www.welsh-blood.org.uk

• Scotland: www.scotblood.co.uk

• Northern Ireland: https://nibts.hscni.net

Register as an organ donor at www.organdonation.nhs.uk. Living donations, like kidney donation, are also possible.

Other Ways to Volunteer

Volunteering benefits you and your community. It can help improve your English, build skills, and expand your network.

Volunteer activities include:

• Animal care at shelters

• Youth group support

• Environmental clean-ups

• Assisting the homeless

• Mentoring former prisoners

• Hospital volunteer roles

• Supporting elderly care

Thousands of UK charities need volunteers, from large organizations like the British Red Cross to local groups. Visit www.doit.life/volunteer for opportunities.

Young people can also join programs like the National Citizen Service (16-17 years old) to develop skills and take part in community projects:

• National Citizen Service: https://wearencs.com

• England: www.vinspired.com

• Wales: https://volunteering-wales.net/vk/volunteers/index.htm

• Scotland: https://www.volunteerscotland.net

• Northern Ireland: www.volunteernow.co.uk

Looking After the Environment

Recycling reduces waste and saves energy by reusing materials instead of extracting new resources. Visit www.recyclenow.com to learn what you can recycle in England, with similar sites for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Supporting local businesses by shopping locally helps reduce your carbon footprint and strengthens the community.

Using public transport, walking, or cycling instead of driving also lowers pollution and protects the environment.

Check That You Understand

• How to get involved in your child’s school

• The role of school governors and how to become one

• How political parties operate and how to join

• Volunteering opportunities in local services

• Blood and organ donation processes

• The benefits of volunteering

• Types of volunteer activities available

• Ways to care for the environment

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE