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The role of the Crown in Parliament

Study note

Although the monarch does not run the country, the Crown still has an important ceremonial role in Parliament. At the start of each year's parliamentary session, the monarch formally opens Parliament and gives a speech. This speech sets out the government's plans and policies for the year ahead, although it is written by the government rather than by the monarch.

The monarch's role continues at the end of the law making process. All Acts of Parliament are made in the monarch's name, and before a bill can become an Act it must receive Royal Assent, the monarch's formal agreement. This is the final step that turns a bill into law. For the test, remember that the monarch opens each parliamentary session with a speech about the government's plans, and that Royal Assent is needed before a bill becomes an Act of Parliament.

Memory tip: The monarch opens Parliament each year and gives Royal Assent to new laws.

Practise this topic

Question 1 of 2

What ceremonial role does the monarch carry out at the start of each year's parliamentary session?

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Show all questions and answers for The role of the Crown in Parliament(2 questions with explanations)

The role of the Crown in Parliament: questions, answers and explanations

  1. 1. What ceremonial role does the monarch carry out at the start of each year's parliamentary session?

    • Opening Parliament and giving a speech about the government's plans
    • Leading the Opposition
    • Voting on new laws as an MP
    • Choosing the Speaker

    Correct answer: Opening Parliament and giving a speech about the government's plans

    The monarch opens the new parliamentary session and gives a speech setting out the government's plans.

  2. 2. A bill needs Royal Assent from the monarch before it becomes an Act of Parliament.

    • True
    • False

    Correct answer: True

    True. Royal Assent is the final step before a bill becomes law.

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