Start with the different jobs
Parliament and government are closely connected, but they do different jobs. Parliament examines proposed laws, scrutinises government and debates matters of public concern. Government develops policies and runs public administration through ministers and departments. Think about who is proposing or carrying out a policy and who is examining it.
Where MPs fit in
Members of the House of Commons are elected to represent constituencies. Government ministers may also be members of Parliament, which is one reason the terms can feel confusing. A person can have both a parliamentary role and a ministerial role. In a question, focus on the role being described rather than assuming that every mention of an MP means the government.
The two Houses and the monarch
The UK Parliament comprises the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the monarch. The Commons is elected; the Lords is largely appointed and examines legislation. The monarch is head of state, while the Prime Minister is head of government. Keeping those roles separate helps you interpret questions about constitutional monarchy.
Practise with a comparison
Write four headings: representative, minister, Prime Minister and monarch. Under each, write one responsibility and one thing the role does not normally do. Then practise explaining how a proposal could be discussed, scrutinised and implemented. You do not need to memorise a news story to understand the distinction between an institution and the people currently holding office.
Notice the geographical scope
Some responsibilities are exercised by devolved institutions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Local councils have another set of responsibilities. Read whether a question refers to the UK Parliament, a devolved legislature or a local council. Use current official sources for changing details and the handbook for the test's syllabus.
Go straight to the source
Keep these official sources handy as you revise.
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