The British Monarchy and Political System
The United Kingdom operates under a constitutional monarchy, where the monarch serves as the head of state but with limited political power. The current monarch, King Charles III, inherited the throne from Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for over 70 years.
The UK's political system is based on the principle of separation of powers, divided into three branches:
- Legislative: Parliament HouseofCommonsandHouseofLords
- Executive: Government, led by the Prime Minister
- Judiciary: Courts and the Supreme Court
Highlight: The monarch's role is largely ceremonial, with the Prime Minister and Parliament holding the majority of political power.
The House of Commons, consisting of 646 elected members, is the primary legislative body. The House of Lords, composed of appointed members, plays a secondary role in lawmaking and can debate or delay bills.
Example: The monarch officially appoints the Prime Minister after their election, as was the case with Boris Johnson.
Vocabulary: Privy Council: A formal body of advisers to the monarch, consisting of senior politicians and other notable figures.
The monarch's duties include:
- Representing the UK to the world as head of state
- Opening and closing Parliament annually
- Providing a sense of continuity and national unity
Quote: "The Queen has a representative role and is a symbol of the tradition of Great Britain."