Political Legal System

You can see in this section how the UK government works along with the way the different parliaments and assemblies operate, both nationally and locally.

You can also find out about law and order and the legal systems, how the political parties operate, the way we work with Europe and the European Union, and how the Royal family and the monarchy functions.

Overview of our Government

The UK is a parliamentary democracy operating within a constitutional monarchy. The monarch is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the political leader and acts as the head of Her Majesty's Government.

Political Parties

The three main political parties in the UK are the Conservative Party, the Labour Party and Liberal Democrat Party.

The Royal Family

As head of state, the monarch has the power to appoint Prime Ministers, approve legislation and bestow honours. He or she also has official roles to play in other organisations, such as the Armed Forces and the Church of England.

Law and Order

This section covers the law courts, civil law, criminal law, police and prisons.

Charities and Voluntary Groups

Charities and voluntary groups have a wide range of concerns ranging from social deprivation, politics and children to animals, cultural heritage and medical research, both in the UK and overseas.

Europe

The UK is 1 of Europe’s 48 countries and a member of the European Union - a partnership of nations working to benefit their citizens.

UK in Australia