Arif wanted to know that if ministers propose most of the important bills and if the majority party often gets the government bills passed, what is the role of the Parliament in the law making process? What answer would you give him?
Even though ministers propose most important bills and the majority party often gets government bills passed, Parliament plays a crucial role in the law making process.
Firstly, Parliament is the chief law making body of the country. While the actual drafting is done by the bureaucracy under ministerial supervision, and the Cabinet decides the substance and timing of bills, no major bill can be introduced without Cabinet approval. However, legally speaking, no bill can become law unless approved by Parliament.
Secondly, Parliament performs the vital debating function. It is the highest forum of debate in the country where members can discuss any matter without fear. These discussions constitute the heart of democratic decision making as they allow Parliament to analyse every issue facing the nation.
Thirdly, Parliament serves a representative function by representing divergent views of members from different regional, social, economic, and religious groups from across the country.
Additionally, the committee system plays an important role. Many important bills are referred to committees which examine them in detail. Parliament then approves the work done in these committees with occasional alterations.
Thus, while the executive initiates legislation, Parliament ensures accountability, enables thorough debate, represents diverse voices, and gives final legal approval to all laws.
Explanation
This question tests students' understanding of Parliament's multifaceted role beyond just passing bills. The textbook context highlights that while the executive (ministers and Cabinet) initiates and drafts legislation, Parliament's role includes: (1) Legislative function - final approval is mandatory; (2) Debating function - highest forum for discussion; (3) Representative function - voices diverse interests; (4) Committee scrutiny - detailed examination of bills. The key insight is that Parliament provides democratic legitimacy through debate, representation, and accountability, even when the majority party ensures passage of government bills.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify Parliament's role as chief law making body with final approval authority
Step 2: Explain the debating function as the heart of democratic decision making
Step 3: Describe the representative function capturing diverse views
Step 4: Highlight the committee system's role in detailed scrutiny
Step 5: Conclude with Parliament's essential role in ensuring accountability and giving legal validity to laws