How Powerful is the Prime Minister? (Edexcel A Level Politics): Revision Note

Modern PMs increasingly rely on informal decision-making rather than full Cabinet discussion

• Tony Blair used sofa government; Boris Johnson relied on advisers such as Dominic Cummings; lockdown decisions were taken by Cabinet Committee COVID-O rather than the full Cabinet

PMs rely on a small group of advisers and senior ministers, strengthening central control and reducing the influence of departments and Cabinet ministers

The PM appoints and dismisses ministers, reshuffles Cabinet and can create or abolish departments, enforcing loyalty

• Johnson’s reshuffles rewarded loyalists; Sunak appointed Jeremy Hunt immediately as Chancellor

Media attention is focused on the PM, increasing their dominance over agenda-setting and public perception

• Blair, Cameron and Johnson all used media-driven leadership to shape policy narratives.

PMs can deploy armed forces, sign treaties and exercise executive authority without parliamentary approval

• Sunak authorised air strikes on Yemen; Johnson deployed forces during the Afghanistan evacuation

Crises favour strong, centralised leadership and rapid decision-making

• Covid-19 strengthened executive dominance through COBRA and Cabinet committees

Cabinet opposition can weaken PM authority and force change or resignation

• Thatcher was removed after Cabinet pressure; Johnson resigned after mass ministerial resignations

Party unity is essential for PM authority; rebellions limit what a PM can safely do

• Major’s divided party weakened his leadership; Starmer faced internal tensions despite a large majority

Legislation must still pass through Parliament, limiting unilateral action

• Sunak faced significant resistance passing the Rwanda Bill

Unpopular policies or errors can rapidly erode authority and force U-turns or resignations

• The Iraq War damaged Blair’s authority; Starmer reversed winter fuel payment decisions

PM power is reduced when governing requires compromise

• Cameron’s coalition forced negotiation with Liberal Democrats and reliance on The Quad

Economic conditions, global events and international obligations limit PM control regardless of leadership style

• Cost-of-living pressures constrained Sunak’s government.

PMs depend on maintaining parliamentary majorities and public support

• Sunak’s authority collapsed following the 2024 general election defeat