AStrong accountability of the executive
BFlexible government leading to quick changes
CNo clear separation of powers, as the executive is part of the legislature
DCooperation between branches for passing laws
Answer:
C. No clear separation of powers, as the executive is part of the legislature
Read Explanation:
Parliamentary system
In a parliamentary system, the executive (led by a Prime Minister and Council of Ministers) is part of the legislature (Parliament) and depends on its support to stay in power.
Key Features of the Parliamentary System
Executive Part of Legislature:
The Prime Minister and ministers are members of Parliament, linking the executive and legislative branches.
Example: In the UK, the Prime Minister is an elected Member of Parliament (MP) who leads the government.
Dependence on Majority Support:
The government stays in power only if it has the support of the majority in Parliament.
Example: In India, the Prime Minister must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha (lower house) to remain in office.
Collective Responsibility:
The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to Parliament for its decisions.
Example: In Canada, if a major policy fails a vote in Parliament, the entire government may resign.
Flexible Tenure:
The government can be removed before its term ends if it loses Parliament’s support (e.g., through a no-confidence vote).
Example: In Italy, governments often change due to no-confidence votes or coalition breakdowns.
Head of State vs. Head of Government:
The head of state (e.g., monarch or president) is separate from the head of government (Prime Minister).
Example: In the UK, the King is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government.
Merits of the Parliamentary System
Strong Accountability:
The executive is answerable to Parliament, ensuring regular scrutiny of government actions.
Example: In the UK, the Prime Minister faces weekly Question Time in Parliament to answer MPs’ queries.
Flexible Government:
The government can be replaced quickly if it loses support, allowing adaptability to public opinion.
Example: In India, a no-confidence motion in 1999 led to the fall of the government, triggering new elections.
Cooperation Between Branches:
Since the executive is part of the legislature, passing laws is often easier when the government has a majority.
Example: In Canada, the ruling party’s majority in Parliament helps pass budgets smoothly.
Representation of Diverse Groups:
Coalition governments in multi-party systems allow smaller parties to have a voice.
Example: In Germany, coalition governments often include smaller parties like the Greens, ensuring diverse representation.
Demerits of the Parliamentary System
No Clear Separation of Powers:
The executive is part of the legislature, so Parliament may not always hold the government accountable, especially with a strong majority.
Example: In India, anti-defection laws force MPs to vote with their party, limiting independent oversight.
Unqualified Legislators:
Many MPs focus on becoming ministers rather than developing law-making skills, leading to weaker legislation.
Example: In the UK, some MPs prioritize political loyalty over expertise in drafting laws.
Instability in Coalitions:
If no party wins a majority, coalition governments can be unstable and short-lived.
Example: Italy has had over 60 governments since World War II due to fragile coalitions.
Limited Choice of Ministers:
Ministers must be MPs, excluding experts from outside Parliament.
Example: In Canada, the Prime Minister cannot appoint a non-elected expert as a minister without them first becoming an MP.
Hesitant Decision-Making:
Fear of losing Parliament’s support may prevent bold or long-term decisions.
Example: In India, coalition governments have delayed economic reforms to maintain support from smaller parties.
Party Politics Over National Interest:
Party loyalty often drives decisions, overshadowing broader public needs.
Example: In the UK, party whips ensure MPs vote with the party, even on controversial issues.