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Evaluate the view that since 2010 the UK has seen a return to cabinet government - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 2
Evaluate the view that since 2010 the UK has seen a return to cabinet government. In your answer you should draw on relevant knowledge and understanding of the stud... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the view that since 2010 the UK has seen a return to cabinet government - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points for the view
Answer
One argument supporting a return to cabinet government is that David Cameron led a coalition government rather than a single party majority. This required more collective decision-making and a shift towards cabinet influence in shaping policy.
Furthermore, significant cabinet figures, known as 'Big Beasts,' emerged during this period, including George Osborne and Boris Johnson, who played important roles in cabinet discussions.
Moreover, Theresa May, who succeeded Cameron, had to negotiate with cabinet members, especially post the 2016 Brexit referendum. Her election in 2017 aimed to strengthen her mandate among MPs and increase her authority within cabinet.
Finally, divisions within the Conservative Party have made the role of cabinet members more prominent, as collective decision-making became essential to address internal party disagreements.
Step 2
Points against the view
Answer
Conversely, it can be argued that cabinet government has not returned. For instance, Cameron was able to implement his austerity policies with relative ease, often without significant opposition from coalition members.
Additionally, Cameron used the coalition 'quad' to bypass cabinet, indicating a more authoritarian style in decision-making.
Moreover, Prime Ministers like Boris Johnson have increasingly bypassed the cabinet through the use of special advisers and a more presidential style of governing, much akin to Thatcher's approach.
This bypassing may indicate a consolidation of power within the PM's office rather than a genuine return to cabinet government.
Step 3
Conclusions and judgement against the view
Answer
In conclusion, while there are points indicating a return to cabinet government since 2010, such as the necessity of collaboration during coalition governance, there is substantial evidence suggesting that Prime Ministers have continued to exert significant control over the cabinet.
The critique of the cabinet's role, particularly under the influence of advisers, strongly argues against the notion of a return to a more traditional cabinet government model.
Ultimately, it appears that while the structure of government may have elements of cabinet decision-making, the overarching power dynamics favor Prime Ministerial control.