THE THREE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT 🇬🇧⚖️ Who makes the law? Who governs? Who judges? In Britain, these functions are divided between three principal branches of public power: 🏛️ 1. THE LEGISLATURE — PARLIAMENT Makes and changes the law. Parliament consists of the Crown, House of Commons and House of Lords. Its functions include: • making legislation • scrutinising Government • approving taxation and spending • debating matters of public importance Parliament is the supreme legal authority under the principle of Parliamentary Sovereignty. 👑 2. THE EXECUTIVE — GOVERNMENT Administers and exercises public power. The Government consists of the Prime Minister, Cabinet and other ministers, supported by the Civil Service and government departments. Its job is to: • develop policy • administer the country • deliver public services • exercise powers granted by law • put legislation into effect And crucially: Government is not Parliament. The Government is accountable to Parliament. ⚖️ 3. THE JUDICIARY — THE COURTS Interprets and applies the law. The judiciary: • determines disputes • conducts criminal trials • interprets legislation • protects due process • ensures public authorities act within their legal powers An independent judiciary is a fundamental part of the rule of law. Parliament makes the law. Government exercises public power. Courts apply and interpret the law. That is the architecture of constitutional government. 🇬🇧⚖️