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

The final chapter explains how the UK is run and what is expected of you. Expect questions on Parliament, elections and the courts.

A constitutional monarchy

The UK is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy. The monarch is head of state with a mainly ceremonial role.

Parliament

• The House of Commons — elected MPs (the most important part).
• The House of Lords — members are appointed, not elected.
• The monarch.

The Prime Minister leads the government; 10 Downing Street is the PM's home.

Elections

• A general election is held at least every 5 years, using first-past-the-post.
• Anyone on the electoral register aged 18+ can usually vote.

Devolved government

Powers are devolved to the Scottish Parliament (Edinburgh), the Senedd (Cardiff) and the Northern Ireland Assembly (Belfast).

The law and your role

• Criminal law deals with crimes; civil law settles disputes.
• Your responsibilities: obey the law, register to vote, serve on a jury if asked, and pay taxes (Income Tax and National Insurance).

Key facts to remember

• Parliament = House of Commons + House of Lords + the monarch.
• MPs are elected; the House of Lords is appointed.
• General elections happen at least every 5 years (first-past-the-post).