Institutions of the British Constitution: Monarchy and the Judiciary (AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies): Revision Note

The monarchy

• The UK is a constitutional monarchy, which means the monarch is Head of State, but their powers are limited by law

  • Day-to-day political power is exercised by Parliament and the government, not the monarch

• Over time, many of the monarch’s powers have been transferred to elected bodies

  • This helps ensure democracy and accountability

• The monarch still carries out important ceremonial and constitutional roles

  • The King gives Royal Assent to all new laws

    • By constitutional convention, Royal Assent is always granted

  • The King opens Parliament each year and delivers the King’s Speech

    • This speech is written by the government and outlines its plans for the year

• The monarchy is often seen as a symbol of national identity, tradition and stability

  • Supporters argue it provides continuity and unity

  • Critics question whether having an unelected, hereditary Head of State is appropriate in a modern democracy

The judiciary

• The judiciary refers to the system of judges and courts in the UK

  • Judges interpret and apply the law and ensure justice is delivered fairly

• The UK judiciary is independent from the government

  • This independence is essential for the rule of law

• Judges in the UK are appointed, not elected

  • They are chosen based on experience and qualifications, not political views

  • Judges usually serve until retirement, making it difficult for politicians to remove them

• This system contrasts with countries such as the United States

  • In the USA, many judges are elected or appointed for fixed terms.

  • This can make judicial roles more political

• The UK system aims to ensure judges remain neutral, independent and impartial

• Further information on the courts system in the UK can be found here