Edexcel A-Level Politics | Component 3A: USA | 2027 Predicted Paper | Mark Scheme Question 1(b)
Examine the differences in the degree of internal unity within the main political parties in the USA and the UK.
(12 marks)
The focus is specifically internal unity, meaning how far politicians belonging to the same party act and vote cohesively. Students should therefore compare divisions within parties, not simply describe differences between Democrats and Republicans or between Labour and the Conservatives. Pearson's sample assessment material identifies party discipline, candidate selection, ideological breadth, factions and the strength of party whips as relevant comparison points.
Indicative content
Difference 1: UK parties generally possess stronger parliamentary discipline
UK parliamentary parties have comparatively strong whip systems. The Commons Library describes the Chief Whip's role as securing the government's majority for its legislative and policy programme.
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