Opposition refers to parties who sit in Parliament but are not in government, such as the Lib Dems and SNP, with the most prominent being His Majesty’s opposition – the Labour party. Opposition parties play an effective role in scrutiny seen through their involvement in the legislative process, PMQs/UQs and select committees. Therefore, opposition parties play a key role in holding the government to account, meaning they are certainly effective in the House of Commons.

Do backbenchers have much influence today?

Due to the Wright reforms and the increase in unstable governments, it is clear that the influence of backbenchers has increased over the past two decades. And, although it may have been the case that with passing legislation in the past, backbenchers have been very weak, today, they are far more willing to stand up to party whips and leadership.

Backbenchers are Members of Parliament who do not have ministerial roles, be this in the Government or as part of the Shadow Cabinet. Their importance is highly debatable, with their potential for impact upon the legislative cycle being weighed up against the significant impact party politics, patronage and discipline has on mediating these powers.