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To what extent has the office of Prime Minister become ‘presidential’? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 2
To what extent has the office of Prime Minister become ‘presidential’?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent has the office of Prime Minister become ‘presidential’? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
The notion of the Prime Minister's presidential nature
Answer
The idea that the Prime Minister has become more presidential is widely acknowledged, evolving over the past two decades. This reflects a shift in leadership dynamics where the Prime Minister has taken on more personal authority, often at the expense of collective cabinet decision-making.
Step 2
Arguments for the presidentialization of the Prime Minister
Answer
Proponents assert that the Prime Minister exhibits traits of personalized leadership. The PM serves as the brand image of both the Party and the Government, enabling the skirting of traditional cabinet roles. This shift enables more direct engagement with the public, overshadowing collective decision-making, which is often seen as outdated in favor of a more 'spatial' style of governance where decision-making is privatized among a select group.
Step 3
Counterarguments against the presidentialization
Answer
Conversely, critics highlight that despite the changes in style, the machinery of government remains fundamentally parliamentary, thus limiting presidential powers. Senior ministers within the cabinet hold significant influence and thus constrain the PM's authority. The PM is also reliant on parliamentary support to function effectively, indicating that absolute control is unattainable. Additionally, factors such as lacking a parliamentary majority can severely limit the PM's ability to act independently.
Step 4
Conclusion
Answer
In essence, while the office of Prime Minister may display some presidential characteristics, the underlying parliamentary system and collective governmental machinery notably curb the extent of this presidentialization. The relationship dynamics within the cabinet and the necessity for party support suggest that the office retains significant checks and balances despite the perceived personal dominance of the Prime Minister.