All Politics Edexcel Essay Plans

Evaluate the extent that the actions of pressure groups have been significant in defending and protecting our rights-para 1: influence over government (7) - ANS -majority of pressure groups unlikely to exert influence if not in line with aims of gov / majority opinion of society - fails to enhance REPRESENTATIVE democracy -Eg. Countryside Alliance fails to prevent passage of 2004 Hunting Act - because their views not in line with dominant views in society -if a pressure group represents a minority viewpoint, it is likely to be ignored by a government who seek electoral success -even if a pressure group does have substantial support, if it does not align with aims of a clearly mandated majority gov, it is unlikely to exert legislative influence -eg. In spite of the 'Million march' of 750,000 protesting against Iraq 2003 (largest ever), due to Blair's desire to establish good relations between labor and the US republican party, Operation Telic went ahead -In spite of 80 UK uncut campaigns since 2010, they had little influence as Cameron gov committed to austerity -Therefore, it can be argued that pressure groups fail to enhance democracy as governments are normally only receptive to groups which share their outlook and aims. Evaluate the extent that the actions of pressure groups have been significant in defending and protecting our rights-para 1: influence over government CP (10) - ANS -However, it is important to acknowledge that in many cases government policy U turns have been forced by pressure groups which do not align with government aims. -eg RSPCA employs over 1,600 staff and get national attention through full page ads - puts pressure on gov through ability to influence public opinion - -enhance democracy by informing the policy and activity of an elected gov and educating the public on political issues, whilst also holding the government to account between elections -after years of campaigning and public support, the RSPCA was influential in the passing and implementation of the 2006 Animal Welfare Act (designed to prevent cruelty) - RSPCA has a long history of caring for animals and so best placed to inform gov policy in that area