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Evaluate the view that the concepts of individual ministerial responsibility and collective ministerial responsibility are both still important - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 2
Evaluate the view that the concepts of individual ministerial responsibility and collective ministerial responsibility are both still important. In your answer you ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the view that the concepts of individual ministerial responsibility and collective ministerial responsibility are both still important - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Evaluate the view that the concepts of collective ministerial responsibility (CMR) are still important.
Answer
Collective ministerial responsibility indicates that ministers must present a unified stance on government policy, regardless of personal opinion. This creates a space for frank expression of opposing views within the cabinet, while underscoring the need for collective accountability.
CMR has proven adaptable, adapting to circumstances, such as the suspension of it during Brexit discussions, which illustrates the flexibility required in modern governance. This adaptability suggests that CMR remains relevant and can evolve yet continue to ensure strong leadership cohesion.
Step 2
Evaluate the view that the concepts of individual ministerial responsibility (IMR) are still important.
Answer
Individual ministerial responsibility holds that ministers are answerable to Parliament for their departments. This principle ensures that accountability is maintained at a personal level, requiring ministers to uphold standards of behavior. In practice, IMR helps in reinforcing legitimacy and encourages transparency within government functions.
However, under recent administrations, the adherence to IMR has weakened, as ministers increasingly evade responsibility for departmental errors. Current political climates indicate that the principle of IMR is often overlooked, resulting in a disconnect between public expectations and ministerial accountability.
Step 3
Consider the view that both concepts are important based on recent examples.
Answer
Recent instances, such as the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit negotiations, highlight the complexities surrounding accountability. While CMR creates a facade of unity, the increasing public disagreements signal the limitations of collective responsibility. Similarly, IMR is highlighted during ministerial scandals, yet many ministers continue to serve despite breaches of conduct, suggesting a gradual erosion of its fundamental principles.
In conclusion, both CMR and IMR demonstrate importance in theory; however, practical application shows a significant gap between the ideals of accountability and the realities faced by government officials.