The political system of United Kingdom

What is the British form of democracy like?

Accessibility icon The political system of United Kingdom

The political system
of the UK

The UK is a parliamentary democracy with four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

It has two Houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The public elects 650 members to the House of Commons.

United Kingdom map. England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. Vector Great Britain map wit UK flag isolated on white background.
United Kingdom map. England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. Vector Great Britain map wit UK flag isolated on white background.

The House of Commons

The leader of the party with the most seats in the House of Commons becomes Prime Minister.

📷 Chamber of the House of Commons in the Houses of Parliament, London.
Chamber of the House of Commons in the Houses of Parliament, London.
Chamber of the House of Commons in the Houses of Parliament, London.

The House of Lords

The House of Lords has appointed, hereditary, and bishop members. The monarch (king or queen), is the ceremonial head, and must give Royal Assent to make  the laws suggested by the government.

House of Lords, UK
House of Lords, UK

Sources:

Media rights:

    1. Getty Images
    2. Civil Service Local—Cabinet Office/© Crown copyright (Open Government License 3.0)
    3. UK government (Open Government License 3.0)