Chapter 2
IN THIS LESSON
Makers, Enforcers, Interpretors
Summary (what’s what):
The UK divides power between the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary — but unlike the US, we don’t have a total separation. Instead, the executive is drawn from Parliament, while the judiciary is fully independent. This balance prevents abuse of power and ensures accountability.
Seperations
Executive (Government):
Made up of the Prime Minister and ministers.
Runs government departments (health, education, defence).
Proposes legislation and secondary rules, then implements and enforces law once passed.
Accountable to Parliament.
Legislature (Parliament):
Made up of the House of Commons and House of Lords.
Debates, amends, and passes laws.
Scrutinises government policy through questions, debates, and select committees.
Holds the executive to account.
Judiciary (Courts):
Independent from both government and Parliament.
Interprets the law and ensures government acts lawfully.
Includes the Supreme Court, which hears cases of the highest public importance.
Can challenge government actions through judicial review.
The UK nuance:
Fusion of powers between executive and legislature (since ministers are MPs or Lords).
Separation of judiciary — firmly independent since the Constitutional Reform Act 2005.
Parliamentary sovereignty still means Parliament has the “last word” in lawmaking.
Points of Influence
Watch a Bill’s journey (public website shows every stage).
Send evidence to select committees (anyone can submit).
Contact MPs and peers at second reading or committee stage of Bills.
Follow Supreme Court judgments and join discussions on accountability.
Pray for just laws (Parliament), wise governance (Executive), and fair rulings (Judiciary).