The evolution of parliamentary democracy in Britain is a testament to the gradual shift in power from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy with a strong parliamentary system. Over the centuries, this transformation has led to the establishment of basic civil liberties and the expansion of voting rights to a broader segment of society.
Origins of Parliamentary Control
Parliament’s control over the British monarchy has a long history that dates back to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 AD by King John, which was later confirmed and expanded upon by King Edward I. This pivotal document laid the foundation for the principle that the king was subject to the law, just like his subjects. This concept of legal accountability was crucial in the development of parliamentary institutions in England, which evolved through a series of reforms rather than abrupt changes.
The Growth of Civil Liberties and Voting Rights
Initially, the right to vote in England was heavily restricted by property and religious qualifications, allowing only one out of six Englishmen to participate in elections, and completely excluding women. However, the 19th century marked a period of significant reform. The Combination Acts were amended in 1824–25, making it legal for labor unions to organize. This change was an important step towards recognizing the rights of workers and their ability to collectively bargain.
In 1832, the first of the three Reform Bills was passed, which expanded voting rights to the middle class. This bill faced considerable opposition from the House of Lords, but with the king’s support, who threatened to appoint new liberal members, the bill eventually became law. The Second Reform Bill, passed in 1867, further extended suffrage to most city workers, while the Third Reform Bill in 1884 included farm workers in the electorate.
The culmination of these reforms came in 1928 when women were finally granted the right to vote, marking a significant milestone in the quest for gender equality in Britain’s political landscape.
The Role of the House of Lords and the Monarchy
Throughout this period of reform, the House of Lords played a complex role, often resisting changes to the electoral system. Their power to block legislation was a significant hurdle for reformers. However, the willingness of the monarchy to intervene, as seen in the passage of the first Reform Bill, indicates that the monarch’s role had evolved into a more symbolic one, with real political power increasingly resting in the hands of Parliament.
Questions for UPSC
1. How did the Magna Carta influence the development of parliamentary democracy in Britain?
2. What were the key factors that led to the extension of voting rights to different social classes and genders in Britain?
3. How did the relationship between the House of Lords, the monarchy, and the House of Commons evolve during the 19th and early 20th centuries?
