Chapter 3 The government of the united ingdom Time Allocation: 4 periods Focal Points: the formation of the government; the monarch; Parliament; the Prime Minister: the Cabinet Focus questions 1. What is the central government made up of?(The monarch, Parliament, and the cabinet) 2. What are the three branches of the English parliament? (The Monarch, the hor of Lords, and the house of commons) 3. What are the five titles of nobility?(Duke, Marquees, Earl, Viscount and Baron) 4. Who chooses the members of the British Cabinet?(Prime Minister) 5. In which place are Kings and Queens crowned? (Westminster Abbey) 6. Where is the Monarchs residence in London? (Buckingham Palace) 7. What's the meaning of"parliament"?(A place for argument and debate) 8. When was the parliamentary system instituted in Britain?(in the 13th centur 9. What is the chairman of the House of Commons called?(Speaker) 10. What is the chairman of the House of Lords called? (Lord Chancellor) 11. What is the Cabinet made up of? (The Prime Minister and some other ministers) 12. Who are civil servants?(Government employees) 13. Who are always included in the Cabinet?(The Minister of Defense, the Foreign Secretary and the Chancellor of the Exchequer) 14 How are the members of parliament in the house of commons elected how are those in the house of lords selected? Introduction to the System of Government To know the political systems of the UK, first of all, we should be clear about the definition ofgovernment What is“ government”? Government is a political organization comprising the individuals and institutions authorized to formulate public policies and conduct affairs of state
1 Chapter 3 The Government of the United Kingdom Time Allocation: 4 periods Focal Points: the formation of the government; the Monarch; Parliament; the Prime Minister; the Cabinet. Focus questions: 1. What is the central government made up of? (The monarch, Parliament, and the cabinet) 2. What are the three branches of the English parliament? (The Monarch, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons) 3. What are the five titles of nobility? (Duke, Marquees, Earl, Viscount and Baron) 4. Who chooses the members of the British Cabinet? (Prime Minister) 5. In which place are Kings and Queens crowned? (Westminster Abbey) 6. Where is the Monarch’s residence in London? (Buckingham Palace) 7. What’s the meaning of “parliament”? (A place for argument and debate) 8. When was the parliamentary system instituted in Britain? (in the 13th century) 9. What is the chairman of the House of Commons called? (Speaker) 10.What is the chairman of the House of Lords called? (Lord Chancellor) 11.What is the Cabinet made up of? (The Prime Minister and some other ministers) 12.Who are civil servants? (Government employees) 13.Who are always included in the Cabinet? (The Minister of Defense, the Foreign Secretary and the Chancellor of the Exchequer) 14.How are the Members of Parliament in the House of Commons elected? How are those in the House of Lords selected? Introduction to the System of Government To know the political systems of the UK，first of all, we should be clear about the definition of “government”. What is “government”? Government is a political organization comprising the individuals and institutions authorized to formulate public policies and conduct affairs of state
Governments are usually empowered to establish and regulate the interrelationships of the people within their territorial confines. In this sense, government applies both to the governments of national states, such as the federal government of the U.S., and to the govemments of subdivisions of national states such as the state, county, and municipal governments of the U.S. The word government" may also refer to the people who form the supreme administrative body of a country, as in the expression"the government of Prime Minister Tony Blaire" in the UK Governments are classified in a great many ways and from a wide variety of standpoints. A familiar classification is that which distinguishes monarchic from republican governments. Scholars in modern times, espec ially in the 20th century, have stressed the characteristics that distinguish democratic governments from dictatorships. In one classification of governments, federal states are distinguished from unitary states Monarchy is a form of government in which one person has the hereditary right to rule as head of state during his or her lifetime. The power of the monarch varies from absolute to very limited. Monarchs include such rulers as kings and queens emperors and empress Republican government is a form of state based on the concept that sovereignty resides in the people, who delegate the power to rule in their behalf to elected representatives and officials emocracy is a political system in which the people of a country rule through any form of government they choose to establish. In modern democracies, supreme authority is exercised for the most part by representatives elected by popular suffrage n many democracies, such as the United States, both the executive head of government and the legislature are elected. In typical constitutional monarchies such as the United Kingdom, only the legislators are elected, and from their ranks a cabinet and a prime minister are chosen (It is important to distinguish between a republic and a democracy. In the theoretical republican state, where the government expresses the will of the people who have chosen it, republic and democracy may be identical (there are also democratic monarchies). Historical republics, however, have never conformed to a theoretical model, and in the 20th century the term republic is freely used by dictatorships, one-party states, and democracies alike. Republic has, in fact, come to signify any form of state headed by a president or some similarly titled figure, and not a monarch.) Federalism, also referred to as federal government, is a national or international political sy stem in which two levels of government control the same territory and
2 Governments are usually empowered to establish and regulate the interrelationships of the people within their territorial confines. In this sense, government applies both to the governments of national states, such as the federal government of the U.S., and to the governments of subdivisions of national states, such as the state, county, and municipal governments of the U.S. The word “government” may also refer to the people who form the supreme administrative body of a country, as in the expression “the government of Prime Minister Tony Blaire” in the UK. Governments are classified in a great many ways and from a wide variety of standpoints. A familiar classification is that which distinguishes monarchic from republican governments. Scholars in modern times, especially in the 20th century, have stressed the characteristics that distinguish democratic governments from dictatorships. In one classification of governments, federal states are distinguished from unitary states. Monarchy is a form of government in which one person has the hereditary right to rule as head of state during his or her lifetime. The power of the monarch varies from absolute to very limited. Monarchs include such rulers as kings and queens, emperors and empresses. Republican government is a form of state based on the concept that sovereignty resides in the people, who delegate the power to rule in their behalf to elected representatives and officials. Democracy is a political system in which the people of a country rule through any form of government they choose to establish. In modern democracies, supreme authority is exercised for the most part by representatives elected by popular suffrage. In many democracies, such as the United States, both the executive head of government and the legislature are elected. In typical constitutional monarchies such as the United Kingdom, only the legislators are elected, and from their ranks a cabinet and a prime minister are chosen. (It is important to distinguish between a republic and a democracy. In the theoretical republican state, where the government expresses the will of the people who have chosen it, republic and democracy may be identical (there are also democratic monarchies). Historical republics, however, have never conformed to a theoretical model, and in the 20th century the term republic is freely used by dictatorships, one-party states, and democracies alike. Republic has, in fact, come to signify any form of state headed by a president or some similarly titled figure, and not a monarch.) Federalism, also referred to as federal government, is a national or international political system in which two levels of government control the same territory and
citizens. Countries with federal political systems have both a central government and governments based in smaller political units, usually called states, provinces, or territories. These smaller political un its surrender some of their political power to the central government, relying on it to act for the common good Federal political systems are relatively uncommon around the world. Instead most countries are unitary systems, with laws giving virtually all authority to the central government. The central government may delegate duties to cities or other administrative units, but it retains final authority. The central government in a unitary system is much more powerful than the central government in a federal system Different countries may have different kinds of government. Although both the United Kingdom and the United States are democratic countries, they have difference in their system of government The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is a Monarchic government with the monarch as the Head of State. The present monarch of the country is Queen Elizabeth II. But the United Kingdom is a parliamentary monarchy (constitutional monarchy that is, the head of state is a monarch(King or Queen) with limited powers. It means the Queen can only rule with the advice of parliament Actually, the Queen of the UK has no real power in the UK. She does everything automatically Britain's democratic government is based on the fact that its members of parliament are elected by the people. Parliament consists of three parts: the House of Lords. the house of Commons and the monarch. The House of Commons is far more influential than the House of Lords. The chief executive is the prime minister, who is a member of the house of commons The executive branch also includes her Majesty's Government, commonly referred to simply as " the government. The government is composed of ministers in the Cabinet, most of whom are members o the house of commons because the house of commons is involved in both the legis lative and executive branches of the British government, there is no separation of powers between executive and legislature as there is in the United States Besides, the United Kingdom is a unitary government, because its central government with the Prime Minister as the leader is very strong. All the other governments, like city governments, town governments, are subject to the central government. Or local and regional governments derive authority from the central United States is a federal country. Federalism is the basic framework of the system of government. What does it mean by"federalism"in the United States In the United States, federalism(EX#KAi) means the division of the powers of government between the nation and the state. Each American is subject to two
3 citizens. Countries with federal political systems have both a central government and governments based in smaller political units, usually called states, provinces, or territories. These smaller political units surrender some of their political power to the central government, relying on it to act for the common good. Federal political systems are relatively uncommon around the world. Instead, most countries are unitary systems, with laws giving virtually all authority to the central government. The central government may delegate duties to cities or other administrative units, but it retains final authority. The central government in a unitary system is much more powerful than the central government in a federal system. Different countries may have different kinds of government. Although both the United Kingdom and the United States are democratic countries, they have difference in their system of government. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is a Monarchic government with the monarch as the Head of State. The present monarch of the country is Queen Elizabeth II. But the United Kingdom is a parliamentary monarchy (constitutional monarchy)—that is, the head of state is a monarch (King or Queen) with limited powers. It means the Queen can only rule with the advice of parliament. Actually, the Queen of the UK has no real power in the UK. She does everything automatically. Britain’s democratic government is based on the fact that its members of parliament are elected by the people. Parliament consists of three parts: the House of Lords, the House of Commons, and the monarch. The House of Commons is far more influential than the House of Lords. The chief executive is the prime minister, who is a member of the House of Commons. The executive branch also includes Her Majesty’s Government, commonly referred to simply as “the government.” The government is composed of ministers in the Cabinet, most of whom are members of the House of Commons. Because the House of Commons is involved in both the legislative and executive branches of the British government, there is no separation of powers between executive and legislature as there is in the United States. Besides, the United Kingdom is a unitary government, because its central government with the Prime Minister as the leader is very strong. All the other governments, like city governments, town governments, are subject to the central government. Or local and regional governments derive authority from the central government. United States is a federal country. Federalism is the basic framework of the system of government. What does it mean by “federalism” in the United States? In the United States, federalism (联邦制) means the division of the powers of government between the nation and the state. Each American is subject to two
governments: 1)the government of his state and 2) the government of the Union Each of them has its own d istinct function The states have under the Constitution the primary functions of provid ing law and order, education, public health and most of the things, which concern day-to-day life. The federal government at Washington(the government of the Union) is concerned with foreign affairs and with matters of general concern to the states, includ ing commerce between the states United States is also a republic country with the Separation of Powers among the three departments of the Federal Government: 1)executive(the President), 2) legislature(Congress)and 3)judicial(the Supreme Court ) Congress makes laws, the President supervises the administration, and the courts interpret the laws and with the aid of the executive enforce the laws. the three elements are checked and balanced by one another. The Constitution limits the powers of each branch and prevents any branch from gaining too much power Besides, the United States is a presidential government instead of parliamentary government. In one classification of democratic nations, parliamentary governments are distinguished from presidential ones. In parliamentary governments the executive branch is subordinate to the legislature. So in the United Kingdom, parliament is very important part of government. The Prime Minister and his ministers of government are at the same time Members of parliament. The government can only remain in office as long as it has the support of a majority of the members of In presidential governments, such as in the U.S., the executive is inder e legislature. President and his government administers are not at the same time the members of the Congress. They are separated from each other and check and balance with each other Thus, the general election of the United Kingdom is a general election of the Members of Parlia ment while the general election of the United States is to elect a president. . Central Government The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy Its constitution is partly unwritten and is flexible. The constitutions basic sources are legislative Acts of Parliament and decisions made by courts of law. The reigning monarch(the present King or Queen) is permanent head of state. Executive ver Is in the hands of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the leader of the majority
4 governments: 1) the government of his state and 2) the government of the Union. Each of them has its own distinct function. The states have under the Constitution, the primary functions of providing law and order, education, public health and most of the things, which concern day-to-day life. The federal government at Washington (the government of the Union) is concerned with foreign affairs and with matters of general concern to the states, including commerce between the states. United States is also a republic country with the Separation of Powers among the three departments of the Federal Government: 1) executive (the President), 2) legislature (Congress) and 3) judicial (the Supreme Court). Congress makes laws, the President supervises the administration, and the courts interpret the laws and with the aid of the Executive enforce the laws. The three elements are checked and balanced by one another. The Constitution limits the powers of each branch and prevents any branch from gaining too much power. Besides, the United States is a presidential government instead of parliamentary government. In one classification of democratic nations, parliamentary governments are distinguished from presidential ones. In parliamentary governments the executive branch is subordinate to the legislature. So in the United Kingdom, parliament is a very important part of government. The Prime Minister and his ministers of government are at the same time Members of parliament. The government can only remain in office as long as it has the support of a majority of the members of Commons. In presidential governments, such as in the U.S., the executive is independent of the legislature. President and his government administers are not at the same time the members of the Congress. They are separated from each other and check and balance with each other. Thus, the general election of the United Kingdom is a general election of the Members of Parliament while the general election of the United States is to elect a president. I. Central Government The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy. Its constitution is partly unwritten and is flexible. The constitution's basic sources are legislative Acts of Parliament and decisions made by courts of law. The reigning monarch (the present King or Queen) is permanent head of state. Executive power is in the hands of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the leader of the majority
party in Parliament, and the cabinet. The cab inet is appointed by the Prime minister from among his or her party. The Prime Minister also appoints about 25 ministers outside the cabinet, as well as 50 junior ministers. Legislative power is vested in the Parliament, consisting of the monarch, the hered itary and appointive House of lords and the elected House of commons The 659 members of the house of commons are elected to five-year terms, although the Prime Minister may call general elections at any time The British Government is composed of three tiers: (1) the central gov t, (2)the county government, and 3)the district governmen The central government of the UK is made up of three parts: (1)the monarch, (2) Parliament, and (3) the cabinet. why do we say that the british system of government is constitutional monarchy? What is the meaning of the constitutional monarchy? The United Kingdom of great Britain and northern ireland is said to be reigned over the monarch, but she does not rule. Britain is regarded as a democracy in the Western World because the real power of government is invested with elective officials. The participation of the monarch in government, a kind of formality and historical legacy, is limited by the basic law known as the constitution(not necessarily in a written form). It is for this reason that the British sy stem of government is known as constitutional monarchy 1. The monarchy The present sovereign is Queen Elizabeth Il, 1lth generation of the House of Hanover(汉诺威王朝) Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926. She was the elder daughter of Albert Duke of York, and his wife, Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. Elizabeth IIs education was supervised by her mother and taught by a governess, Marion Crawford. She also had instruction from visiting teachers in music and languages Early in 1947 Princess Elizabeth went with the king and queen to South Africa After her return, there was an announcement of her marriage appointment to her distant cousin Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten of the Royal Navy, formerly Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark. The marriage took place in Westminster Abbey or Nov. 20, 1947. On the eve of the wedd ing her father, the king, conferred upon the bridegroom the titles of Duke of Ed inburgh. They took residence at Clarence House in London. They have four children, 3 sons and 1 daughter. Their first child, Prince Charles( Charles Philip Arthur George)was born Nov. 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace In the summer of 1951 the health of King george Vi entered into a serious decline
5 party in Parliament, and the cabinet. The cabinet is appointed by the Prime Minister from among his or her party. The Prime Minister also appoints about 25 ministers outside the cabinet, as well as 50 junior ministers. Legislative power is vested in the Parliament, consisting of the monarch, the hereditary and appointive House of Lords, and the elected House of Commons. The 659 members of the House of Commons are elected to five-year terms, although the Prime Minister may call general elections at any time. The British Government is composed of three tiers: (1) the central government, (2) the county government, and (3) the district government. The central government of the UK is made up of three parts: (1) the monarch, (2) Parliament, and (3) the cabinet. ---Why do we say that the British system of government is constitutional monarchy? What is the meaning of the constitutional monarchy? The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is said to be reigned over the Monarch, but she does not rule. Britain is regarded as a democracy in the Western World because the real power of government is invested with elective officials. The participation of the monarch in government, a kind of formality and historical legacy, is limited by the basic law known as the constitution (not necessarily in a written form). It is for this reason that the British system of government is known as constitutional monarchy. 1. The Monarchy The present sovereign is Queen Elizabeth II, 11th generation of the House of Hanover (汉诺威王朝). Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926. She was the elder daughter of Albert, Duke of York, and his wife, Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. Elizabeth II’s education was supervised by her mother and taught by a governess, Marion Crawford. She also had instruction from visiting teachers in music and languages. Early in 1947 Princess Elizabeth went with the king and queen to South Africa. After her return, there was an announcement of her marriage appointment to her distant cousin Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten of the Royal Navy, formerly Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark. The marriage took place in Westminster Abbey on Nov. 20, 1947. On the eve of the wedding her father, the king, conferred upon the bridegroom the titles of Duke of Edinburgh. They took residence at Clarence House in London. They have four children, 3 sons and 1 daughter. Their first child, Prince Charles (Charles Philip Arthur George) was born Nov. 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace. In the summer of 1951 the health of King George VI entered into a serious decline
and Princess Elizabeth represented him on various state occasions. King George VI died on Feb. 6, 1952. Thus, Elizabeth became queen on Feb 6, 1952. The first three months of her reign, the period of full mourning for her father, were passed in comparative seclusion. But in the summer, after she had moved from Clarence House to buckingham Palace she undertook the routine duties of the sovereign and carried It her first state opening of Parliament on Nov. 4, 1952. Her coronation was held at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953 On the accession(Bp iz)of Queen Elizabeth, her son Prince Charles became heir le was named Prince of Wales on July 26, 1958. The queen s other children were Princess Anne born Aug. 15.1950: Prince Andrew born Feb. 19. 1960. and Prince Edward, born March 10, 1964. Elizabeth's first grandchild(Princess Anne's son)was born on Nov. 15.1977 I)The role of the monarch The government of the United Kingdom has for many centuries been shared by ee supreme authorities 1)the Monarch (i.e. the Queen or King) 2) the lords(ie. the hered itary(世袭的) nobility) 3)the Commons (i.e. the ord inary people) The history of the United Kingdom has been the story of a gradual shifting of supremacy from the first of these authorities to the third. Or we may say it is a gradual progress towards democracy Before the English Bourgeois Revolution, the King was very powerful (1) He personally exercised supreme executive, legislative and judicial power (2) He manipulated the election of the Archbishop ()He could grant lands and wealth to his favorites (4)He could appoint his followers to important positions (5) He conferred noble titles (6) He could have anyone arrested, put into prison or to death The constitutional monarchy was established after the 1688 Glorious Revolution At the beginning of its establishment, the King still remained the center of executive power. He could appoint and dismiss ministers, although he had little power in law making. Later, towards the end of the 18th century, the Kings power began to become less by degree According to legislation, the full title of the present Queen is: Elizabeth Il, By The grace Of God, Of The United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland and of her other Realms And Territories Queen, Head of The Commonwealth. Defender of the faith Grace:God' s mercy and favor towards mankind(上帝对人类的慈悲) 6
6 and Princess Elizabeth represented him on various state occasions. King George VI died on Feb. 6, 1952. Thus, Elizabeth became queen on Feb 6, 1952. The first three months of her reign, the period of full mourning for her father, were passed in comparative seclusion. But in the summer, after she had moved from Clarence House to Buckingham Palace, she undertook the routine duties of the sovereign and carried out her first state opening of Parliament on Nov. 4, 1952. Her coronation was held at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953. On the accession (即位) of Queen Elizabeth, her son Prince Charles became heir ; He was named Prince of Wales on July 26, 1958. The queen's other children were Princess Anne, born Aug. 15, 1950; Prince Andrew, born Feb. 19, 1960, and Prince Edward, born March 10, 1964. Elizabeth's first grandchild (Princess Anne's son) was born on Nov. 15, 1977. 1) The Role of the Monarch The government of the United Kingdom has for many centuries been shared by three supreme authorities: 1) the Monarch (i.e. the Queen or King) 2) the Lords (i.e. the hereditary (世袭的) nobility) 3) the Commons (i.e. the ordinary people) The history of the United Kingdom has been the story of a gradual shifting of supremacy from the first of these authorities to the third. Or we may say it is a gradual progress towards democracy. Before the English Bourgeois Revolution, the King was very powerful. (1) He personally exercised supreme executive, legislative and judicial power. (2) He manipulated the election of the Archbishop. (3) He could grant lands and wealth to his favorites. (4) He could appoint his followers to important positions. (5) He con’ferred noble titles. (6) He could have anyone arrested, put into prison or to death. The constitutional monarchy was established after the 1688 Glorious Revolution. At the beginning of its establishment, the King still remained the center of executive power. He could appoint and dismiss ministers, although he had little power in law making. Later, towards the end of the 18th century, the King’s power began to become less by degrees. According to legislation, the full title of the present Queen is: Elizabeth II, By The Grace Of God, Of The United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland And Of Her Other Realms And Territories Queen, Head Of The Commonwealth, Defender Of The Faith ----Grace: God’s mercy and favor towards mankind (上帝对人类的慈悲)
Realm: Kingdom(王国) Faith:指国家的或正统的宗教 Theoretically, the Queen is the official head of state, the head of the legal system of Britain. the commander-in-chief of all armed forces and the head of the church of England. Many important government processes require the participation of the The British government is called"Her Majesty's Government The Queen summons, prorogues and dissolves Parliament prorogue bring a session of parliament to an end without dissolve it so that unfinished business may be taken up again in the next session(使国会会期休会) -Dissolve bring to an end She appoints the Prime Minister, ministers, and important officials and officers She presides the great state functions(盛大的国家典礼) She gives many important honors and awards She concludes(缔结) treaties and declares war. She remits(free someone from a punishment #fe)all or part of the sentence passed on a criminal by granting a royal pardon The Queen seems to have an unl imited power, but practically everything she does is done on the advice of her ministers. Everything has been decided in advance by Parliament or the Prime Minister together with his cabinet. The Queen does all the things automatically. It is unconstitutional for the Queen to refuse As a matter of fact, the Queen can only appoint a new Prime Minister, while the other ministers are appointed by the new Prime Minister. And the Queen cannot appoint a new Prime Minister according to her own will. She has to appoint the person who is the leader of the Majority Party in the House of Commons. So the appointment is also a legal formality. In the general election, if one party has won the majority seats in the Commons. This party then has the right to control the government. Its leader will be the head of the new government. Yet if the party having a majority has no recognized leader, the queen has the duty of selecting a Prime Minister. In such circumstances she would be entitled to consult anyone she wished 2)Succession The succession to the throne is not decided by the royal family alone. It regulated by Parliament Acts and common law rules. The first candidate for the throne is the first son born to a reigning monarch. His title is Prince of Wales. If he dies young without descendants, one of his brothers or sisters will be chosen according to the established rule. The principle is that the sons of the Sovereign and
7 ----Realm: Kingdom (王国). ----Faith: 指国家的或正统的宗教。 Theoretically, the Queen is the official head of state, the head of the legal system of Britain, the commander-in-chief of all armed forces and the head of the Church of England. Many important government processes require the participation of the Queen. The British government is called “Her Majesty’s Government”. The Queen summons, prorogues and dissolves Parliament. --Prorogue: bring a session of Parliament to an end without dissolve it so that unfinished business may be taken up again in the next session (使国会会期休会). --Dissolve: bring to an end. She appoints the Prime Minister, ministers, and important officials and officers. She presides the great state functions (盛大的国家典礼). She gives many important honors and awards. She concludes (缔结) treaties and declares war. She remits (free someone from a punishment 赦免) all or part of the sentence passed on a criminal by granting a ‘royal pardon’. The Queen seems to have an unlimited power, but practically everything she does is done on the advice of her ministers. Everything has been decided in advance by Parliament or the Prime Minister together with his cabinet. The Queen does all the things automatically. It is unconstitutional for the Queen to refuse. As a matter of fact, the Queen can only appoint a new Prime Minister, while the other ministers are appointed by the new Prime Minister. And the Queen cannot appoint a new Prime Minister according to her own will. She has to appoint the person who is the leader of the Majority Party in the House of Commons. So the appointment is also a legal formality. In the general election, if one party has won the majority seats in the Commons. This party then has the right to control the government. Its leader will be the head of the new government. Yet if the party having a majority has no recognized leader, the Queen has the duty of selecting a Prime Minister. In such circumstances she would be entitled to consult anyone she wished. 2) Succession The succession to the throne is not decided by the royal family alone. It is regulated by Parliament Acts and common law rules. The first candidate for the throne is the first son born to a reigning monarch. His title is Prince of Wales. If he dies young without descendants, one of his brothers or sisters will be chosen according to the established rule. The principle is that the sons of the Sovereign and
their descendants have precedence over daughters while the daughters take precedence over the Sovereigns brothers. The Queen's husband can get the title known as the duke of Ed ingurgh Priority[ prai riti](按照资格的次序):(l)Sons( older to younger) and descend ants, (2) Daughters and descendants (3)Brothers and descendants 3) The monarch' s consort(配偶) The Queen seems to be the most important figure in every field of national life but there is no written law to define her power. She only does what Parliament and the Cabinet want her to do. The monarch even has no right to choose her or his consort Qualifications: (1)from a noble family (2)with the consent of Parliament ()not a Roman Catholic By the Act of Settlement(1701年英国议会通过的王室继承法), neither the monarch nor any member of the royal family is permitted to marry a roman Catholic By the royal Marriage Act of1772(皇家婚姻法, members of royal family must obtain the queen 's permission to marry otherwise the king would suffer the loss of his position, as King Edward VIll did in 1936 King Edward VIll fell in love with an American film star. He planned to marry her, but Parliament refused to give its approval for her alleged infamy. The king had no alternative but to abdicate (iB iz). He married her and they remained in love till the end of their life. What's more, only protestant descendants are eligible to succeed to the throne. The monarch has no freedom of belief The Kings wife--Queen Consort王后 The Queens Husband-(1) Prince Consort王夫 (2)the Duke of Edinburgh ()the Prince of the United K ingdom The eldest son- the Prince of wales 4)Coronation Coronation is a ceremony of crowning a king or a queen Time: an interval after the death of the old king Place: Westminster Abbey Formality(形式): grand and pompous Conductor(主持): the archbishop of Canterbury Participants: VIPs in Britain and foreign guests
8 their descendants have precedence over daughters while the daughters take precedence over the Sovereign’s brothers. The Queen’s husband can get the title known as the Duke of Edingurgh. Priority [prai’ riti] (按照资格的次序): (1) Sons (older to younger) and descendants, (2) Daughters and descendants (3) Brothers and descendants. 3) The Monarch’s consort (配偶) The Queen seems to be the most important figure in every field of national life, but there is no written law to define her power. She only does what Parliament and the Cabinet want her to do. The monarch even has no right to choose her or his consort. Qualifications: (1) from a noble family, (2) with the consent of Parliament, (3) not a Roman Catholic. By the Act of Settlement (1701 年英国议会通过的王室继承法), neither the monarch nor any member of the royal family is permitted to marry a Roman Catholic. By the Royal Marriage Act of 1772 (皇家婚姻法), members of royal family must obtain the Queen’s permission to marry. Otherwise, the King would suffer the loss of his position, as King Edward VIII did in 1936. King Edward VIII fell in love with an American film star. He planned to marry her, but Parliament refused to give its approval for her alleged infamy. The king had no alternative but to abdicate (退位). He married her and they remained in love till the end of their life. What’s more, only protestant descendants are eligible to succeed to the throne. The monarch has no freedom of belief. The King’s wife—Queen Consort 王后 The Queen’s Husband— (1) Prince Consort 王夫 (2) the Duke of Edinburgh (3) the Prince of the United Kingdom The eldest son—the Prince of Wales 4) Coronation Coronation is a ceremony of crowning a king or a queen. Time: an interval after the death of the old king Place: Westminster Abbey Formality (形式): grand and pompous Conductor (主持): the Archbishop of Canterbury Participants: VIPs in Britain and foreign guests
he Successor succeeds to the throne as soon as his or her predecessor dies because"the King is dead; long live the King! But the coronation ceremony is held some time later. The coronation service, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, takes place at Westminster Abbey in the presence of leading officials and important citizens Abbey was founded in the year 1065 by St. Edward the (priest who has the right to hear confessions ). For the first five centuries of its existence,which is from the 1lth century to the 16th century, the palace at Westminster was the reigning Kings place of residence (like the White House in the U.S.). for the last two of these five centuries, actually from about 1376 to 1547, the House of Commons normally met in the Chapter House(开教士或修士大会的教堂)of the Abbey. During this period, eight of the kings and queens of England were buried in the abbey too. Before that, only the confessor had been buried in the abbey. After the middle of the 1 6th century the king ceased to live at Westminster Now, the ancient Coronation Chair standing in St. Edward's Chapel (place used for Christian worship iLFFR) is perhaps the Nation's most precious relic. It was made to the order of Edward I and has been used at every coronation since that of Edward ll 5)Expenditure The cost of the Monarch is very large. The royal house has a large amount of private wealth and spends many millions of pounds given by Parliament. The monarch's expend iture includes the costs of maintaining the royal yacht (w FE)named Britannia, the Queen's Flight of aircraft, the upkeep of the royal palaces and visit overseas. Besides, Parliament also makes annual payments to certain members of the roy al famil Queen Elizabeth II received a Civil List of f 475,000 when she came to the throne in 1952, but inflation affected the list over the years, and by the late 20th century the Civil List amounted to more than f5,000,000 annually. For the 1985-1986 the civil list, a payment for the keep of the royal household and family was fixed at f5, 180,000, of which f3, 967, 200 were intended for the Queen But the royal palaces, the crown jewels and royal collections of treasures are state property and must be handed down to successors Because of the continuous economic recessions, many of her subjects were discon tent over the large royal wealth and growing expend iture of the royal house Her children's behav iors were not in line with the trad ition Prince charles and diana separated because of his romantic affair with another woman; Princess Ann,after divorcing her husband, married a former royal assistant. Elizabeth II was forced to
9 The Successor succeeds to the throne as soon as his or her predecessor dies because “the King is dead; long live the King!” But the coronation ceremony is held some time later. The coronation service, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, takes place at Westminster Abbey in the presence of leading officials and important citizens. ----Westminster Abbey was founded in the year 1065 by St. Edward the confessor (priest who has the right to hear confessions). For the first five centuries of its existence, which is from the 11th century to the 16th century, the palace at Westminster was the reigning King’s place of residence (like the White House in the U.S.). for the last two of these five centuries, actually from about 1376 to 1547, the House of Commons normally met in the Chapter House (开教士或修士大会的教堂) of the Abbey. During this period, eight of the kings and queens of England were buried in the Abbey, too. Before that, only the confessor had been buried in the Abbey. After the middle of the 16th century the king ceased to live at Westminster. Now, the ancient Coronation Chair standing in St. Edward’s Chapel (place used for Christian worship 礼拜堂) is perhaps the Nation’s most precious relic. It was made to the order of Edward I and has been used at every coronation since that of Edward II. 5) Expenditure The cost of the Monarch is very large. The royal house has a large amount of private wealth and spends many millions of pounds given by Parliament. The monarch’s expenditure includes the costs of maintaining the royal yacht (游艇) named Britannia, the Queen’s Flight of aircraft, the upkeep of the royal palaces and visits overseas. Besides, Parliament also makes annual payments to certain members of the royal family. Queen Elizabeth II received a Civil List of ￡ 475,000 when she came to the throne in 1952, but inflation affected the list over the years, and by the late 20th century the Civil List amounted to more than ￡5,000,000 annually. For the 1985—1986 the civil list, a payment for the keep of the royal household and family was fixed at ￡5,180,000, of which ￡3, 967,200 were intended for the Queen. But the royal palaces, the crown jewels and royal collections of treasures are state property and must be handed down to successors. Because of the continuous economic recessions, many of her subjects were discon’tent over the large royal wealth and growing expenditure of the royal house. Her children’s behaviors were not in line with the tradition: Prince Charles and Diana separated because of his romantic affair with another woman; Princess Ann, after divorcing her husband, married a former royal assistant. Elizabeth II was forced to
give up one of her privileges-her exemption from income tax in 1992. She called the year" horrible year".(p36, paragraph 2-3) 6)Residence The royal wealth also includes a number of royal palaces, such as buckingham Palace. Wind sor Castle and St. jame's palaces. The Monarch's residence in London is Buckingham Palace, which was built on the site of a house owned by the duke of Buckingham in 1708. It was then known as Buckingham House. It was bought by King George III for f28,000 in 1761. And it has been the Sovereign's London residence since 1837 Besides, the monarch has several other palaces or castles all over the country They are used when the monarch is on tour or holiday. Windsor Castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 1 l th century. It has been a princ ipal residence of the 7)Public Opinions towards the monarch Some people think the keeping of a monarch is too expensive. Since the monarch is out of date and non-democratic. and the monarch's function and lack power. the monarchy should be abolished and ced by a cheaper figurehead presid But public olls from time to time de strate majority support for the institution of monarchy as against a republic alternative are in favor Why do the british people still have a great affection for the Queen? The Queen is regarded as the living sy mbol of national unity She is to provide the natural focus for popular loyalty, embodying the highest standard of morality and the continuity of national history. Many traditional ceremonies and customs are associated with the monarch. Royal marriages and funerals are marked by impressive ceremonial, and the birthday of the Sovereign is officially celebrated every June oyal visits to various parts of the country arouse great interest among common people Most British people regard the monarchy as a long-established tradition The monarchy is the only unchangeable symbol of Britain. It represents the nation as a whole The Monarchy embodies the development of English history It demonstrates stability and continuity. It possesses neutrality with which people can feel secure Politicians come and go according to elections won or lost, and at any given moment every politician always has many determined opponents among those who do
10 give up one of her privileges—her exemption from income tax in 1992. She called the year “horrible year”. (p36, paragraph 2-3) 6) Residence The royal wealth also includes a number of royal palaces, such as Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and St, Jame’s Palaces. The Monarch’s residence in London is Buckingham Palace, which was built on the site of a house owned by the Duke of Buckingham in 1708. It was then known as Buckingham House. It was bought by King George III for ￡28,000 in 1761. And it has been the Sovereign’s London residence since 1837. Besides, the monarch has several other palaces or castles all over the country. They are used when the monarch is on tour or holiday. Windsor Castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. It has been a principal residence of the Sovereign. 7) Public Opinions towards the Monarch Some people think the keeping of a monarch is too expensive. Since the monarch is out of date and non-democratic, and the monarch’s functions are merely ceremonial and lack power, the monarchy should be abolished and replaced by a cheaper figurehead presidency. But public opinion polls from time to time demonstrate majority support for the institution of monarchy as against a republic alternative. That’s to say, most people are in favor of the Monarchy. Why do the British people still have a great affection for the Queen? The Queen is regarded as the living symbol of national unity. She is to provide the natural focus for popular loyalty, embodying the highest standard of morality and the continuity of national history. Many traditional ceremonies and customs are associated with the monarch. Royal marriages and funerals are marked by impressive ceremonial, and the birthday of the Sovereign is officially celebrated every June. Royal visits to various parts of the country arouse great interest among common people. Most British people regard the Monarchy as a long-established tradition. The Monarchy is the only unchangeable symbol of Britain. It represents the nation as a whole. The Monarchy embodies the development of English history. It demonstrates stability and continuity. It possesses neutrality with which people can feel secure. Politicians come and go according to elections won or lost, and at any given moment every politician always has many determined opponents among those who do
