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Difficulty: HardParliamentary System of Government

In a parliamentary system of government operating under the Westminster model, a successful motion of vote of no confidence passed by the legislature against the executive primarily results in which of the following constitutional outcomes?

  1. The resignation of the entire cabinet or the dissolution of parliament leading to fresh general electionsAnswer
  2. B
    The automatic removal of the ceremonial Head of State while the Prime Minister retains executive power
  3. C
    The immediate intervention of the judiciary to conduct a review of executive performance
  4. D
    The compulsory removal of permanent, non-partisan civil service heads across government ministries

Answer

The resignation of the entire cabinet or the dissolution of parliament leading to fresh general elections
In a parliamentary system, executive authority is derived from and accountable to the legislature. Based on collective ministerial responsibility, a successful vote of no confidence demonstrates that the cabinet has lost the parliamentary majority. Consequently, the Prime Minister and cabinet must resign as a single body or request the Head of State to dissolve parliament for new elections.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structural relation between the executive and legislative organs in a parliamentary system.
The executive (cabinet) is drawn directly from the legislature and relies on the legislature's support to stay in office.
Fusion of powers ensures that executive authority remains accountable to the parliamentary majority.
2
Determine the constitutional effect of losing parliamentary confidence.
Passing a vote of no confidence signals that the legislature no longer supports the cabinet.
Under collective responsibility, losing a confidence vote forces the Prime Minister and cabinet to resign as a unit or call fresh elections.

Key Concept

Collective Ministerial Responsibility and Legislative Oversight in a Parliamentary System
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Parliamentary System of Government

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