Chapter 5: The UK government, the law and your role

Question 1 · UK-C5-001

How is the United Kingdom best described as a form of state?

• A. A constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy · Correct answer
• B. A republic led by an elected president
• C. A federation of independent states
• D. An absolute monarchy ruled directly by the monarch

The UK combines a monarchy with rule by an elected Parliament. Laws are made by Parliament and the monarch reigns within limits set by law and convention, so it is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The UK is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy, where laws are made by Parliament and the monarch reigns within limits set by law and convention.

Question 2 · UK-C5-002

Who is the head of state of the United Kingdom?

• A. The Prime Minister
• B. King Charles III · Correct answer
• C. The Speaker of the House of Commons
• D. The Lord Chancellor

The monarch is the head of state, while the Prime Minister leads the government. The monarch is King Charles III, so he is the correct answer here.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The monarch, King Charles III, is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is head of government.

Question 3 · UK-C5-003

What is the main role of the monarch in the UK system?

• A. To lead the government and set its policies
• B. To chair debates in the House of Commons
• C. To act as head of state and carry out ceremonial and constitutional duties · Correct answer
• D. To decide cases in the highest courts

The monarch acts as head of state and carries out ceremonial and formal constitutional duties. The monarch does not run the government from day to day, so leading the government or deciding court cases is not the role.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The monarch is head of state with largely ceremonial and formal constitutional duties, and does not run the government day to day.

Question 4 · UK-C5-004

What happens at the State Opening of Parliament?

• A. MPs elect a new Prime Minister in the Lords chamber
• B. The monarch personally writes and votes on new laws
• C. Local councils present their budgets to Parliament
• D. The monarch opens a new session of Parliament and reads a speech setting out the government plans · Correct answer

At the State Opening, the monarch formally opens a new session of Parliament. The monarch reads a speech that sets out the plans of the government, which is why that option is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: At the State Opening, the monarch formally opens Parliament and reads the speech prepared by the government, which outlines its planned laws for the session.

Question 5 · UK-C5-005

Who prepares the speech that the monarch reads at the State Opening?

• A. The monarch personally
• B. The government · Correct answer
• C. The Speaker
• D. The House of Lords on its own

The speech read at the State Opening is prepared by the government, not written by the monarch personally. It sets out the programme of the government, so the government is the correct answer.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The speech at the State Opening is written by the government, not by the monarch, and sets out the government programme.

Question 6 · UK-C5-006

How many houses does the UK Parliament have?

• A. One: the House of Commons only
• B. Three: Commons, Lords and Senate
• C. Two: the House of Commons and the House of Lords · Correct answer
• D. Four, one for each part of the UK

The UK Parliament is made up of two houses. They are the House of Commons and the House of Lords, and both meet at Westminster.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Parliament has two houses, the House of Commons and the House of Lords, which meet at Westminster.

Question 7 · UK-C5-007

Which house of Parliament is elected by the public?

• A. The House of Lords
• B. Both houses are elected
• C. Neither house is elected
• D. The House of Commons · Correct answer

Only one house of Parliament is chosen by voters. Members of the House of Commons are elected by the public, while members of the House of Lords are not elected.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Members of the House of Commons are elected by voters, while members of the House of Lords are not elected.

Question 8 · UK-C5-008

How are most members of the House of Lords described in the official handbook?

• A. Appointed life peers · Correct answer
• B. Elected for five year terms
• C. Hereditary rulers of counties
• D. Civil servants chosen by exam

In the handbook account, most members of the House of Lords are life peers who are appointed rather than elected. That is why appointed life peers is the correct description.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Most members of the House of Lords are life peers who are appointed, alongside bishops and, in the handbook account, some hereditary peers.

Question 9 · UK-C5-009

As well as life peers, which groups does the handbook say sit in the House of Lords?

• A. Elected mayors and council leaders
• B. Judges and police chiefs
• C. Some Church of England bishops and some hereditary peers · Correct answer
• D. Members of the devolved parliaments

Alongside the appointed life peers, the handbook says the Lords also includes some Church of England bishops and some hereditary peers. No other group listed sits there in that account.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: In the handbook account, the Lords includes life peers, Church of England bishops known as Lords Spiritual, and a small number of hereditary peers.

Question 10 · UK-C5-010

What does a life peer title mean?

• A. It is inherited by the eldest child
• B. It lasts for a fixed ten year term
• C. It can be sold to another person
• D. It lasts for that person life only and is not passed to their children · Correct answer

A life peer keeps the title for his or her own lifetime only. It is not passed on to children, so it cannot be inherited.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A life peer holds the title for their own lifetime only; it does not pass to their children.

Question 11 · UK-C5-011

Who chairs debates in the House of Commons?

• A. The Speaker · Correct answer
• B. The Prime Minister
• C. The Leader of the Opposition
• D. The monarch

Commons debates are chaired by the Speaker. The Speaker keeps order in the chamber and applies the rules of the House.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Debates in the Commons are chaired by the Speaker, who keeps order and applies the rules of the House.

Question 12 · UK-C5-012

Which statement best describes the Speaker?

• A. A minister appointed by the Prime Minister to defend the government
• B. An MP chosen by other MPs who must stay politically neutral in the role · Correct answer
• C. A judge who also sits in the Lords
• D. A party leader who campaigns at elections for the government

The Speaker is an MP chosen by other MPs to chair the Commons. While in the role the Speaker must stay politically neutral and give up party activity, so the neutral description is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Speaker is an MP elected by fellow MPs and must be politically impartial, giving up party activity while in the role.

Question 13 · UK-C5-013

How many MPs sit in the House of Commons?

• A. 450
• B. 600
• C. 750
• D. 650 · Correct answer

The House of Commons has 650 MPs. There is one MP for each constituency, which gives the total of 650.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: There are 650 MPs in the House of Commons, one for each constituency.

Question 14 · UK-C5-014

What does an MP represent?

• A. One constituency, a local area of the UK · Correct answer
• B. A whole county council region only
• C. A political party headquarters
• D. A government department

Each MP represents a single constituency, which is a local area of the UK. The MP speaks for the people who live in that area.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Each MP represents a single constituency and the people who live there.

Question 15 · UK-C5-015

At a general election, how many MPs does each constituency return?

• A. Two
• B. One · Correct answer
• C. Three
• D. It depends on the population alone, up to ten

Each constituency returns just one MP at a general election. Voters in that area choose a single representative for the Commons.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Each constituency elects one MP to the House of Commons.

Question 16 · UK-C5-016

How often must a general election be held at the latest?

• A. Every two years
• B. Every seven years
• C. At least every five years · Correct answer
• D. Every ten years

A general election must be held at least every five years, although one can be called sooner. Five years is therefore the longest gap allowed.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A general election must take place at least every five years, although it may be held sooner.

Question 17 · UK-C5-017

Which voting system is used for UK general elections?

• A. First past the post · Correct answer
• B. Proportional representation by national list
• C. A two round run off in every seat
• D. Transferable votes ranked across the whole country

UK general elections use first past the post. In each constituency, the candidate with the most votes wins the seat.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: General elections use first past the post, where the candidate with the most votes in each constituency wins the seat.

Question 18 · UK-C5-018

Under first past the post, what does a winning candidate need?

• A. More than half of all votes across the UK
• B. More votes than any other single candidate in that constituency · Correct answer
• C. Approval from the House of Lords
• D. The support of the local council

Under first past the post, a candidate only needs more votes than any other single candidate in that constituency. A majority of all the votes cast is not required.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Under first past the post the candidate with the highest number of votes in the constituency is elected, even without a majority of all votes cast.

Question 19 · UK-C5-019

What is the voting age for UK parliamentary elections?

• A. 16
• B. 21
• C. 18 · Correct answer
• D. 25

You must be 18 or over on polling day to vote in a UK general election. That makes 18 the voting age for parliamentary elections.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: You must be 18 or over on polling day to vote in a UK general election.

Question 20 · UK-C5-020

What is a secret ballot?

• A. Voters must announce their choice in public
• B. Only party members may see the results
• C. Votes are counted in secret and never published
• D. Voters mark their choice in private and no one should know how they voted · Correct answer

A secret ballot means each person marks their choice in private. No one else should know how an individual voted, which is what makes the ballot secret.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Elections are held by secret ballot, so each person vote is private.

Question 21 · UK-C5-021

What is a by-election?

• A. A second general election held in the same year
• B. An election in one constituency to replace an MP between general elections · Correct answer
• C. A vote held only inside Parliament
• D. An election for a local mayor

A by-election takes place in a single constituency when a seat becomes vacant between general elections, for example if an MP dies or resigns. It replaces that one MP.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A by-election fills a single seat that becomes vacant, for example when an MP dies or resigns, before the next general election.

Question 22 · UK-C5-022

After a general election, who usually becomes Prime Minister?

• A. The Speaker of the Commons
• B. The longest serving member of the Lords
• C. The leader of the political party with the largest number of MPs in the Commons · Correct answer
• D. The winner of a separate national vote for president

After a general election, the Prime Minister is normally the leader of the political party with the largest number of MPs in the Commons. There is no separate national vote for the post.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Prime Minister is normally the leader of the party that wins the most seats in the House of Commons.

Question 23 · UK-C5-023

Where does the Prime Minister live and work in London?

• A. Buckingham Palace
• B. The Palace of Westminster
• C. 11 Downing Street only, with no office
• D. 10 Downing Street · Correct answer

The Prime Minister lives and works at 10 Downing Street in London. It is both the official home and the office of the Prime Minister.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Prime Minister official London home and office is 10 Downing Street.

Question 24 · UK-C5-024

What does the Prime Minister do about senior government posts?

• A. Chooses the members of the Cabinet · Correct answer
• B. Has no say, as the monarch picks all ministers alone
• C. Lets the Speaker appoint ministers
• D. Asks councils to nominate ministers

The Prime Minister chooses the senior ministers who serve in the government. That includes deciding who sits in the Cabinet.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Prime Minister appoints senior ministers and chooses who sits in the Cabinet.

Question 25 · UK-C5-025

What is the Cabinet?

• A. All 650 MPs sitting together
• B. The staff of 10 Downing Street
• C. A group of senior ministers chosen by the Prime Minister who meet to decide government policy · Correct answer
• D. A committee of the House of Lords only

The Cabinet is a group of senior ministers chosen by the Prime Minister. They meet together to take major decisions about government policy.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Cabinet is made up of senior ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, who take major decisions about government policy.

Question 26 · UK-C5-026

Who is responsible for government spending plans and presents the Budget?

• A. The Speaker
• B. The Foreign Secretary
• C. The Governor of a local council
• D. The Chancellor of the Exchequer · Correct answer

The Chancellor of the Exchequer is the senior minister responsible for economic and financial matters. The Chancellor presents the Budget, so that is the correct answer.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Chancellor of the Exchequer is the senior minister in charge of economic and financial matters and presents the Budget.

Question 27 · UK-C5-027

What is the Budget?

• A. The government main financial statement, setting out its plans for tax and spending · Correct answer
• B. A list of laws passed in one year
• C. The monarch speech to Parliament
• D. A report written by the Opposition

The Budget is the main financial statement of the government. In it, the Chancellor sets out plans for tax and spending and reports on the state of the economy.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Budget is the Chancellor annual statement to Parliament about taxation, spending and the state of the economy.

Question 28 · UK-C5-028

What is the Official Opposition?

• A. A group of civil servants who advise ministers
• B. The largest party in the Commons that is not in government · Correct answer
• C. The second chamber of Parliament
• D. Any party that wins no seats

The Official Opposition is the largest party in the Commons that is not in government. Its job is to challenge and scrutinise what the government does.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Official Opposition is the biggest opposition party in the House of Commons and its job is to challenge and scrutinise the government.

Question 29 · UK-C5-029

What is the shadow cabinet?

• A. Ministers who work only at night sittings
• B. Retired Cabinet members who advise the monarch
• C. Civil servants who draft the Budget
• D. Senior members of the Official Opposition who follow the work of government departments · Correct answer

The shadow cabinet is made up of senior members of the Official Opposition. Each one follows the work of a government department and puts forward alternatives.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Opposition front bench spokespeople form a shadow cabinet, with each member shadowing a government department and offering alternatives.

Question 30 · UK-C5-030

What work do government departments do?

• A. Each department covers an area of policy, such as health or education, and is headed by a minister · Correct answer
• B. They replace Parliament in making all laws
• C. They are run by the monarch directly
• D. They only deal with local bin collections

Each government department covers a particular area of policy, such as health or education, and delivers related public services. Every department is headed by a minister.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Government departments handle particular policy areas and deliver public services, each led by a Secretary of State or senior minister.

Question 31 · UK-C5-031

Which statement best describes the Civil Service?

• A. It campaigns for the party in power at elections
• B. It serves the government of the day and is meant to be politically impartial · Correct answer
• C. It is elected by voters every five years
• D. It is part of the House of Lords

Civil servants support ministers and help run public services. They must stay politically impartial and serve whichever party forms the government, so they do not campaign for the party in power.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Civil servants support ministers and run public services, and they are expected to be politically neutral and serve whichever party is in government.

Question 32 · UK-C5-032

Where does the Scottish Parliament meet?

• A. At Westminster in London
• B. At Cardiff Bay
• C. At Holyrood in Edinburgh · Correct answer
• D. At Stormont in Belfast

The Scottish Parliament meets at Holyrood in Edinburgh. Holyrood is its home, not Westminster, Cardiff Bay or Stormont.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Scottish Parliament sits at Holyrood in Edinburgh.

Question 33 · UK-C5-033

How many MSPs are there in the Scottish Parliament?

• A. 129 · Correct answer
• B. 60
• C. 90
• D. 108

The Scottish Parliament has 129 members. Its members are known as MSPs, and there are 129 of them in total.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Scottish Parliament has 129 Members of the Scottish Parliament, known as MSPs.

Question 34 · UK-C5-034

What are members of the Scottish Parliament called?

• A. MLAs
• B. MSPs · Correct answer
• C. MSs
• D. Senators

Members of the Scottish Parliament are called MSPs. That is why MSPs is the correct answer here.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Members of the Scottish Parliament are called MSPs.

Question 35 · UK-C5-035

What is the Welsh Parliament called?

• A. The Assembly of Counties
• B. Holyrood
• C. The Senedd · Correct answer
• D. Stormont

The Welsh Parliament is called the Senedd. It meets in Cardiff, and Senedd is its correct name.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Welsh Parliament is called the Senedd, and it meets in Cardiff.

Question 36 · UK-C5-036

How many members does the Senedd have, as given in the handbook?

• A. 90
• B. 129
• C. 40
• D. 60 · Correct answer

The handbook gives the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament, as having 60 members. On the handbook position asked for here, 60 is the correct figure.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The handbook gives the Welsh Parliament, the Senedd, as having 60 members.

Question 37 · UK-C5-037

What are members of the Senedd called?

• A. MSPs
• B. Members of the Senedd · Correct answer
• C. MLAs
• D. Councillors of Wales

Elected members of the Welsh Parliament are called Members of the Senedd. That is the title used for them, rather than MSP or MLA.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Elected members of the Welsh Parliament are Members of the Senedd.

Question 38 · UK-C5-038

Where does the Northern Ireland Assembly meet?

• A. At Holyrood in Edinburgh
• B. At Cardiff Bay
• C. At Stormont in Belfast · Correct answer
• D. At Westminster only

The Northern Ireland Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast. Stormont is where its sittings take place.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Northern Ireland Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast.

Question 39 · UK-C5-039

How many MLAs sit in the Northern Ireland Assembly?

• A. 60
• B. 108
• C. 129
• D. 90 · Correct answer

The Northern Ireland Assembly has 90 members. They are known as MLAs, short for Members of the Legislative Assembly.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Northern Ireland Assembly has 90 Members of the Legislative Assembly, known as MLAs.

Question 40 · UK-C5-040

Which of these matters is typically devolved to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

• A. Health services · Correct answer
• B. Defence of the UK
• C. Foreign policy and treaties
• D. Immigration rules for the whole UK

Health is a devolved matter, so the devolved governments run health services in their own parts of the UK. Defence, foreign policy and immigration for the whole UK are not devolved in this way.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Health is a devolved matter, so the devolved governments run health services in their parts of the UK.

Question 41 · UK-C5-041

Which matter is reserved to the UK Parliament at Westminster?

• A. Local schools policy
• B. Health services in Scotland
• C. Defence · Correct answer
• D. Housing in Wales

Defence is a reserved matter, dealt with by the UK Parliament and government for the whole UK. It is not handed to the devolved governments, unlike areas such as health in Scotland.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Defence remains a reserved matter dealt with by the UK Parliament and government for the whole UK.

Question 42 · UK-C5-042

Which list contains only matters that devolved governments generally handle?

• A. Foreign affairs, defence and immigration
• B. Currency, defence and international trade
• C. The armed forces, embassies and border control
• D. Education, health, transport and the environment · Correct answer

Devolved governments generally deal with areas such as education, health, transport and the environment in their own nations. That is why the list containing education, health, transport and the environment is the correct answer here.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Devolved governments generally deal with areas such as education, health, transport and the environment in their own nations.

Question 43 · UK-C5-043

Who runs local services such as schools, housing and local roads in many areas?

• A. Local councils · Correct answer
• B. The House of Lords
• C. The Civil Service at Westminster only
• D. The monarch household

Local councils run many local services, including schools, housing and local roads. This work sits with local government rather than with Westminster alone.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Local government, through councils, is responsible for many local services including schools, housing and roads.

Question 44 · UK-C5-044

What are elected local representatives called?

• A. MSPs
• B. Councillors · Correct answer
• C. Peers
• D. Sheriffs

People elected to serve on local councils are called councillors. That is the title for an elected local representative.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: People elected to serve on local councils are called councillors.

Question 45 · UK-C5-045

What happens at local elections?

• A. Voters choose the Prime Minister directly
• B. Voters choose members of the House of Lords
• C. Voters choose judges for local courts
• D. Voters choose councillors to represent their local area · Correct answer

At local elections, voters choose councillors to represent their local area on the council. They are not choosing the Prime Minister, peers or judges.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: At local elections people vote for councillors who will represent their ward or division on the council.

Question 46 · UK-C5-046

Which statement about mayors in the UK is correct in outline?

• A. Some towns, cities and areas have elected mayors who lead the local authority · Correct answer
• B. Every village must elect a mayor who sits in Parliament
• C. Mayors are appointed by the monarch for life
• D. Mayors choose the Cabinet at Westminster

Some towns, cities and combined areas have directly elected mayors who lead the local authority. Many councils are led in other ways, so a mayor is a feature of some areas only.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A number of cities and combined areas have directly elected mayors, though many councils are led in other ways.

Question 47 · UK-C5-047

What must you do before you can vote in an election?

• A. Own property in the area
• B. Be on the electoral register for your area · Correct answer
• C. Be a member of a political party
• D. Have lived in the UK for 20 years

Before you can vote, your name must be on the electoral register for your area. Registering is also a legal responsibility for those who are asked to do so.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: To vote you must be registered on the electoral register; registering is a legal responsibility for those asked to do so.

Question 48 · UK-C5-048

Where do most people vote in person on polling day?

• A. At the local police station
• B. At 10 Downing Street
• C. At a polling station, often in a school or community hall · Correct answer
• D. At their place of work only

Most people vote in person at a polling station, which is often in a school or community hall. The polling station for each voter is shown on their poll card.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Most voters cast their vote in person at a polling station, which is shown on their poll card.

Question 49 · UK-C5-049

Which statement about postal voting is correct in outline?

• A. Voters who qualify can apply to vote by post instead of attending a polling station · Correct answer
• B. Postal votes are only allowed for the Prime Minister
• C. Everyone must vote by post
• D. Postal ballots are counted a year later

Voters who qualify can apply to vote by post instead of going to a polling station. They return their ballot paper by post before the close of poll.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Eligible voters can apply for a postal vote and return their ballot paper by post before the close of poll.

Question 50 · UK-C5-050

Standing for election to the House of Commons normally requires a candidate to be at least how old?

• A. 16 years old
• B. 18 years old · Correct answer
• C. 25 years old
• D. 35 years old

A person must be 18 or over to stand as a candidate for the UK Parliament. That makes 18 the minimum age for standing for the Commons.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A person must be 18 or over to stand as a candidate for the UK Parliament.

Question 51 · UK-C5-051

What is the main job of Parliament as a whole?

• A. To run local councils day to day
• B. To judge every court case in the UK
• C. To make and change laws, check the work of government and approve spending and taxes · Correct answer
• D. To manage the armed forces in person

Parliament as a whole makes and changes laws, checks the work of the government and approves spending and taxes. Running councils day to day or judging court cases is not its job.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Parliament passes laws, holds the government to account and approves taxation and public spending.

Question 52 · UK-C5-052

What does it mean that the UK has no single written constitution document?

• A. There are no rules about how government works
• B. The monarch may ignore all laws
• C. Parliament cannot pass new laws
• D. Rules come from laws, court judgments and conventions built up over time · Correct answer

The UK has no single written constitution document, but it still has constitutional rules. They come from laws passed by Parliament, court judgments and conventions built up over time.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The UK constitution is not set out in one document; it is made up of Acts of Parliament, court decisions and established conventions.

Question 53 · UK-C5-053

In outline, how are the British Overseas Territories governed?

• A. They are run as English local councils
• B. They have their own governments, while the UK remains responsible for matters such as defence · Correct answer
• C. They each send MPs to the Commons
• D. They are fully independent states with no link to the UK

British Overseas Territories have their own governments and legislatures. The UK remains responsible for matters such as defence and foreign affairs, so the second statement gives the right outline.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: British Overseas Territories have their own governments and legislatures, with the UK retaining responsibility for areas such as defence and foreign affairs.

Question 54 · UK-C5-054

In outline, what is true of the Crown dependencies?

• A. They are counties of England
• B. Their councils are departments of Westminster
• C. They have their own governments and laws and are not part of the UK · Correct answer
• D. They elect MPs to the House of Lords

The Crown dependencies, such as Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man, are not part of the UK. They have their own governments and laws, while the Crown is responsible for their defence.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Crown dependencies, such as Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man, are not part of the UK and have their own governments, while the Crown is responsible for their defence.

Question 55 · UK-C5-055

The House of Commons is the elected house of Parliament.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. The House of Commons is the elected house of Parliament, because its members are chosen by voters, unlike members of the Lords.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Commons is elected by voters, unlike the Lords.

Question 56 · UK-C5-056

Members of the House of Lords are elected by the public for five year terms.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. Members of the House of Lords are not elected by the public at all; most of them are appointed life peers.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Members of the House of Lords are not elected; most are appointed life peers.

Question 57 · UK-C5-057

The Speaker must remain politically neutral while chairing Commons debates.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. The Speaker must remain politically neutral while chairing Commons debates and does not take part in party politics in the role.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Speaker is required to be impartial and does not take part in party politics in the role.

Question 58 · UK-C5-058

A general election must be held at least every five years.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. A general election must be held at least every five years, even though one may take place sooner.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: General elections must take place at least every five years.

Question 59 · UK-C5-059

The Prime Minister official London home is 10 Downing Street.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. The official London home and office of the Prime Minister is 10 Downing Street.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: 10 Downing Street is the Prime Minister official residence and office.

Question 60 · UK-C5-060

The monarch writes the speech read out at the State Opening of Parliament.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. The speech read at the State Opening of Parliament is written by the government, not by the monarch.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The speech at the State Opening is written by the government, not by the monarch.

Question 61 · UK-C5-061

Civil servants are expected to support whichever party forms the government and stay politically impartial.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. Civil servants are expected to stay politically impartial and to support whichever party forms the government of the day.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Civil Service is politically neutral and serves the government of the day.

Question 62 · UK-C5-062

Defence is a devolved matter handled separately by each devolved government.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. Defence is reserved to the UK government and Parliament, so it is not handled separately by each devolved government.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Defence is reserved to the UK government and Parliament.

Question 63 · UK-C5-063

You must be aged 18 or over to vote in a UK general election.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. You must be aged 18 or over to vote in a UK general election.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The voting age for UK parliamentary elections is 18.

Question 64 · UK-C5-064

A by-election is used to fill one Commons seat that falls vacant between general elections.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. A by-election is held to fill one Commons seat that falls vacant between general elections.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: By-elections fill a single vacant constituency seat.

Question 65 · UK-C5-065

The Senedd is the parliament for Scotland.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. The Senedd is the Welsh Parliament, while the Scottish Parliament sits at Holyrood.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Senedd is the Welsh Parliament; the Scottish Parliament sits at Holyrood.

Question 66 · UK-C5-066

Which of these statements about the House of Lords is correct?

• A. Most of its members are appointed life peers. · Correct answer
• B. Most of its members are elected at general elections.

Most members of the House of Lords are appointed life peers, and the house is not elected. The other statement is wrong because its members are not chosen at general elections.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Most Lords members are appointed life peers and the house is not elected.

Question 67 · UK-C5-067

Which of these statements about the Prime Minister is correct?

• A. The Prime Minister is chosen by the House of Lords from its own members.
• B. The Prime Minister is normally the leader of the party with the most MPs in the Commons. · Correct answer

The Prime Minister is normally the leader of the party with the most MPs in the Commons. The Lords does not choose the Prime Minister from its own members.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Prime Minister is usually the leader of the largest party in the House of Commons.

Question 68 · UK-C5-068

Which of these statements about voting is correct?

• A. Voting in UK elections takes place by secret ballot. · Correct answer
• B. Voters must declare their choice out loud at the polling station.

Voting in UK elections takes place by secret ballot, so each choice stays private. Voters do not have to declare their choice out loud at the polling station.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: UK elections use a secret ballot so choices stay private.

Question 69 · UK-C5-069

Which of these statements about the Cabinet is correct?

• A. The Cabinet is made up of all 650 MPs.
• B. The Cabinet is a small group of senior ministers picked by the Prime Minister. · Correct answer

The Cabinet is a small group of senior ministers picked by the Prime Minister. It is not made up of all 650 MPs, so the second statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Cabinet consists of senior ministers chosen by the Prime Minister.

Question 70 · UK-C5-070

Which of these statements about devolution is correct?

• A. The Scottish Parliament can make laws on devolved matters such as health and education. · Correct answer
• B. The Scottish Parliament controls UK defence and foreign policy.

The Scottish Parliament can make laws on devolved matters such as health and education. It does not control UK defence and foreign policy, which are reserved matters.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Scottish Parliament legislates on devolved matters such as health and education, not on reserved matters such as defence.

Question 71 · UK-C5-071

Which of these statements about the electoral register is correct?

• A. Anyone may vote whether or not their name is on the register.
• B. You need to be on the electoral register to be able to vote. · Correct answer

You need to be on the electoral register to be able to vote. Someone whose name is not on the register cannot simply vote anyway.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A person must be registered to vote in order to take part in an election.

Question 72 · UK-C5-072

Which of these statements about the Chancellor of the Exchequer is correct?

• A. The Chancellor presents the Budget and leads work on tax and public spending. · Correct answer
• B. The Chancellor chairs debates in the House of Commons.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer is in charge of the economy and presents the Budget. That matches the first statement, so the first statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Chancellor of the Exchequer is in charge of the economy and presents the Budget.

Question 73 · UK-C5-073

Which of these statements about local government is correct?

• A. Councillors are hereditary and never face elections.
• B. Councillors are elected by local voters to serve on councils. · Correct answer

Councillors are elected by local voters to serve on councils and represent local areas. They are not hereditary and they do face elections.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Councillors are elected in local elections to represent local areas.

Question 74 · UK-C5-074

Which of these statements about the Northern Ireland Assembly is correct?

• A. It has 90 members known as MLAs and meets at Stormont. · Correct answer
• B. It has 129 members known as MSPs and meets at Holyrood.

The Northern Ireland Assembly has 90 members known as MLAs and meets at Stormont in Belfast. That matches the first statement, so the first statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Northern Ireland Assembly has 90 MLAs and meets at Stormont in Belfast.

Question 75 · UK-C5-075

Which of these statements about the Official Opposition is correct?

• A. It is a team of civil servants who run government departments.
• B. It is the largest Commons party not in government and it challenges the government. · Correct answer

The Official Opposition is the largest Commons party not in government, and it challenges and scrutinises the government. It is not a team of civil servants running departments.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The Official Opposition is the biggest non government party in the Commons and scrutinises the government.

Question 76 · UK-C5-076

Which of these statements about general elections is correct?

• A. Each constituency elects two MPs under first past the post.
• B. Each constituency elects one MP, and the candidate with the most votes wins. · Correct answer

Under first past the post, each constituency elects one MP, and the candidate with the most votes in that seat wins. No constituency returns two MPs under this system.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Under first past the post each constituency returns one MP, the candidate with the most votes in that seat.

Question 77 · UK-C5-101

Which statement best describes freedom of speech in the UK?

• A. People may express their opinions, but the law sets limits, for example on speech that stirs up hatred · Correct answer
• B. People may say anything at all, with no legal limits
• C. People may only express opinions approved by the government
• D. Freedom of speech applies only to journalists and MPs

Freedom of expression is protected in the UK, but it is not unlimited. Speech that stirs up hatred, for example, can be against the law, so the first statement gives the correct balance.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: UK law protects freedom of expression, but it is not unlimited: speech that incites violence or hatred can be against the law.

Question 78 · UK-C5-102

What does the presumption of innocence mean in a criminal case?

• A. The accused person must prove that they are innocent
• B. The accused person is treated as innocent until the prosecution proves guilt · Correct answer
• C. The police decide whether the accused person is guilty
• D. The jury must assume the accused person is guilty if they have a criminal record

The presumption of innocence means an accused person is treated as innocent until guilt is proved. The burden of proof rests on the prosecution, not on the accused.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: In UK criminal law the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the burden of proof rests on the prosecution.

Question 79 · UK-C5-103

Which of these is part of the right to a fair trial?

• A. The right to choose the judge who hears your case
• B. The right to have the trial held in secret in every case
• C. The right to a hearing within a reasonable time, with legal representation · Correct answer
• D. The right to be found not guilty if you cannot afford a lawyer

A fair trial includes a hearing within a reasonable time before an independent court, with access to legal advice and representation. Those features make the third option part of the right to a fair trial.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A fair trial includes a public hearing within a reasonable time by an independent court, and access to legal advice and representation.

Question 80 · UK-C5-104

How does UK law treat torture?

• A. It is allowed if the police believe it will prevent a crime
• B. It is allowed only during wartime
• C. It is allowed if a judge gives permission
• D. It is prohibited in all circumstances · Correct answer

Torture is prohibited in all circumstances under UK and human rights law. There are no exceptions, even in wartime or with permission from a judge.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Torture is absolutely prohibited under UK and human rights law, with no exceptions.

Question 81 · UK-C5-105

Which statement about the burden of proof in a criminal trial is correct?

• A. The prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt; the defendant is presumed innocent until then · Correct answer
• B. The defendant must prove their innocence, or the court will find them guilty

In a criminal trial the prosecution must prove the guilt of the defendant. Until it does so, the defendant is presumed innocent, so the first statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The presumption of innocence means the accused is treated as innocent until the prosecution proves guilt.

Question 82 · UK-C5-106

Under UK law, treating someone unfairly because of characteristics such as their race, sex, disability or religion is generally known as what?

• A. A private matter that the law never covers
• B. Discrimination, and it is unlawful in areas such as employment and services · Correct answer
• C. Something only the police can decide
• D. Lawful if an employer prefers it

Treating someone unfairly because of characteristics such as race, sex, disability or religion is discrimination. It is unlawful in areas such as employment and services under equality law.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Discrimination on grounds such as race, sex, disability, religion or age is unlawful in employment, services and other areas covered by equality law.

Question 83 · UK-C5-107

Which statement about human rights in the UK is correct?

• A. Human rights protections apply only to British citizens
• B. Human rights protections apply to everyone in the UK, whatever their nationality · Correct answer

Human rights protections in the UK apply to everyone in the country, whatever their nationality. They are not limited to British citizens, so the second statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Human rights protections in the UK apply to everyone within the country, not only to citizens.

Question 84 · UK-C5-108

Which of these freedoms is protected in the UK?

• A. Freedom to ignore court orders you disagree with
• B. Freedom to publish another person's private medical records
• C. Freedom to refuse to pay any tax you disapprove of
• D. Freedom to meet and assemble peacefully with others · Correct answer

Freedom to meet and assemble peacefully with others is a protected freedom in the UK, alongside freedoms such as expression and religion. The other options describe conduct that no such freedom covers.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Freedom of peaceful assembly and association is a protected right, alongside freedoms such as expression and religion.

Question 85 · UK-C5-109

Everyone in the UK has the right to follow a religion, or to follow no religion at all.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. Freedom of thought, conscience and religion is protected in the UK, and that protection includes the choice to follow no religion at all.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Freedom of thought, conscience and religion is protected, including the choice to have no religion.

Question 86 · UK-C5-110

If you believe your human rights have been breached by a public authority, what can you generally do?

• A. Take the matter to court and challenge the authority's actions · Correct answer
• B. Nothing, because public authorities cannot break human rights law
• C. Complain only to your local councillor
• D. Ask the police to arrest the head of the authority

If you believe a public authority has breached your human rights, you can generally take the matter to court. The courts can be asked to challenge what the authority has done.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Individuals can challenge public authorities in the courts if they believe their human rights have been breached.

Question 87 · UK-C5-111

What is the main role of the police in the UK?

• A. To decide the guilt of people accused of crimes
• B. To pass new laws about crime and punishment
• C. To protect life and property, prevent crime and catch criminals · Correct answer
• D. To run the courts and set sentences

The main role of the police is to protect life and property, prevent crime and catch criminals. They bring offenders before the courts, but they do not decide guilt or pass laws.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The police protect life and property, keep the peace, prevent and investigate crime and bring offenders before the courts; they do not decide guilt.

Question 88 · UK-C5-112

Which number should you call in an emergency, for example when a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger?

• A. 999 · Correct answer
• B. 101
• C. 111
• D. 0800 555 111

999 is the emergency number for police, fire and ambulance. It should be used when a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: 999 is the emergency number for police, fire and ambulance when there is immediate danger or a crime in progress.

Question 89 · UK-C5-113

Which number should you use to contact the police about something that is not an emergency, such as reporting a car stolen earlier or damaged property?

• A. 999
• B. 101 · Correct answer
• C. 112
• D. 105

101 is the police non-emergency number. It is for reporting things such as a car stolen earlier or damaged property, where no immediate response is needed.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: 101 is the police non-emergency number for reporting past crimes, damage and other matters that do not need an immediate response.

Question 90 · UK-C5-114

Which statement about reporting a past, non-urgent crime is correct?

• A. A bicycle stolen yesterday, with nobody in danger, should be reported to the police on 101 · Correct answer
• B. A bicycle stolen yesterday, with nobody in danger, must be reported on 999 so officers attend at once

A bicycle stolen yesterday, with nobody in danger, is a non-emergency, so it should be reported to the police on 101. The 999 number is reserved for emergencies needing an immediate response.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Non-emergencies should be reported on 101; 999 is reserved for emergencies needing an immediate response.

Question 91 · UK-C5-115

What is a Police and Crime Commissioner?

• A. A senior police officer in charge of a police force day to day
• B. A judge who hears serious criminal cases
• C. An elected official who sets policing priorities for an area and holds the chief constable to account · Correct answer
• D. A civil servant appointed by the Prime Minister to run police stations

A Police and Crime Commissioner is an elected official who sets policing priorities for an area. The Commissioner holds the chief constable to account but does not run police operations day to day.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Police and Crime Commissioners are elected; they set the local policing plan and budget and hold the chief constable to account, but do not run operations.

Question 92 · UK-C5-116

Which statement about Police and Crime Commissioners is correct?

• A. They command police officers directly and decide how each investigation is run
• B. They are elected and hold the chief constable to account for local policing · Correct answer

Police and Crime Commissioners are elected and hold the chief constable to account for local policing. They do not command officers directly, because operational decisions remain with the chief constable.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Commissioners set priorities and hold the chief constable to account; operational decisions remain with the chief constable.

Question 93 · UK-C5-117

Which statement about the police is correct?

• A. Police officers decide the sentences of convicted criminals
• B. The police are part of the armed forces
• C. Police officers may keep any property they seize during an investigation
• D. Police officers can arrest someone on suspicion but cannot decide their guilt or sentence · Correct answer

Police officers can arrest someone on suspicion, but they cannot decide guilt or set a sentence. Guilt and sentencing are matters for the courts.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The police investigate and may arrest and charge, but guilt and sentencing are matters for the courts.

Question 94 · UK-C5-118

Which statement about reporting crime is correct?

• A. You should call 999 if a crime is happening right now and someone is in danger · Correct answer
• B. You should call 101 if a crime is happening right now and someone is in danger

You should call 999 if a crime is happening right now and someone is in danger, because 999 is for emergencies. The 101 number is for non-emergency reporting instead.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: 999 is for emergencies such as a crime in progress or danger to life; 101 is for non-emergency reporting.

Question 95 · UK-C5-119

What should you do if the police ask you questions about a crime?

• A. You must answer every question with no right to advice
• B. You can ask for legal advice, and a solicitor can be provided free at the police station · Correct answer
• C. Only British citizens may speak to a solicitor
• D. You must pay for legal advice before answering anything

If the police ask you questions about a crime, you can ask for legal advice. A solicitor can be provided free at the police station, giving free independent legal advice.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Someone questioned or arrested at a police station has the right to free independent legal advice from a solicitor.

Question 96 · UK-C5-120

What is the difference between a criminal case and a civil case?

• A. Criminal cases are heard only in Scotland, civil cases only in England
• B. Criminal cases are about money, civil cases are about imprisonment
• C. There is no real difference between them
• D. Criminal cases involve offences against the law, while civil cases are disputes between individuals or organisations · Correct answer

Criminal cases involve offences against the law, prosecuted by the state. Civil cases are disputes between individuals or organisations, such as arguments over contracts or compensation.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Criminal law covers offences prosecuted by the state; civil law covers disputes between individuals or organisations, such as contracts or compensation claims.

Question 97 · UK-C5-121

In England and Wales, which court deals with less serious criminal offences such as minor theft and motoring offences?

• A. The magistrates' court · Correct answer
• B. The Crown Court
• C. The High Court
• D. The Supreme Court

In England and Wales, less serious criminal offences such as minor theft and motoring offences are dealt with in the magistrates' court. More serious cases go elsewhere.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Magistrates' courts handle less serious criminal cases and the early stages of more serious ones in England and Wales.

Question 98 · UK-C5-122

In England and Wales, where are the most serious criminal cases, such as murder, tried?

• A. In the magistrates' court, before three magistrates
• B. In the county court, before a district judge
• C. In the Crown Court, before a judge and jury · Correct answer
• D. At the local police station

The most serious criminal cases in England and Wales, such as murder, are tried in the Crown Court. There a jury decides the verdict and the judge passes sentence.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Serious criminal offences in England and Wales are tried in the Crown Court, where a jury decides the verdict and the judge passes sentence.

Question 99 · UK-C5-123

How many people sit on a criminal jury in England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

• A. 12 · Correct answer
• B. 10
• C. 15
• D. 20

A criminal jury in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has 12 members. That is the standard jury size in those parts of the UK.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Criminal juries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have 12 members.

Question 100 · UK-C5-124

How many people sit on a criminal jury in Scotland?

• A. 9
• B. 15 · Correct answer
• C. 11
• D. 12

A criminal jury in Scotland has 15 members. This is larger than the jury of 12 used elsewhere in the UK.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: A Scottish criminal jury has 15 members, unlike the 12 used elsewhere in the UK.

Question 101 · UK-C5-125

A jury in a criminal case in Scotland has 12 members, the same as in England.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. A criminal jury in Scotland has 15 members, while juries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have 12.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Scottish criminal juries have 15 members; juries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have 12.

Question 102 · UK-C5-126

Who decides the sentence when a defendant is found guilty in the Crown Court?

• A. The jury
• B. The police officer in charge of the case
• C. The judge · Correct answer
• D. The victim of the crime

When a defendant is found guilty in the Crown Court, the judge decides the sentence within the law. The jury decides guilt or innocence, not the punishment.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The jury decides guilt or innocence; the judge is responsible for sentencing within the law.

Question 103 · UK-C5-127

Which statement about judges in the UK is correct?

• A. Judges must follow the government's instructions in each case
• B. Judges are elected by the public at general elections
• C. Judges work for the police service
• D. Judges are independent of government and apply the law impartially · Correct answer

Judges in the UK are independent of government and apply the law impartially. The government cannot direct their decisions in individual cases, so the fourth statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The judiciary is independent: judges apply the law impartially and the government cannot direct their decisions in individual cases.

Question 104 · UK-C5-128

What is the role of a jury in a Crown Court trial?

• A. To decide the sentence if the defendant is convicted
• B. To consider the evidence and decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty · Correct answer
• C. To question witnesses on behalf of the prosecution
• D. To advise the judge on points of law

The role of a jury in a Crown Court trial is to consider the evidence and decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Questions of law and sentencing belong to the judge.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Jurors weigh the facts and evidence and deliver the verdict; questions of law and sentencing belong to the judge.

Question 105 · UK-C5-129

Which statement about civil cases is correct?

• A. A civil case always ends with the losing side going to prison
• B. A civil case usually aims to resolve a dispute, for example over money owed or compensation · Correct answer

A civil case usually aims to resolve a dispute between parties, for example over money owed or compensation. It does not normally end with the losing side going to prison.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Civil cases settle disputes between parties, often about money, contracts or compensation, rather than punishing crimes.

Question 106 · UK-C5-130

Who usually brings a prosecution in a serious criminal case in England and Wales?

• A. The victim personally in every case
• B. The local council
• C. The Police and Crime Commissioner
• D. The Crown Prosecution Service · Correct answer

In England and Wales, most prosecutions in serious criminal cases are brought by the Crown Prosecution Service. It decides whether charges should proceed.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: In England and Wales most prosecutions are brought by the Crown Prosecution Service, which decides whether charges should proceed.

Question 107 · UK-C5-131

Magistrates in England and Wales are usually unpaid volunteers from the local community, trained for the role.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. Magistrates in England and Wales are usually unpaid volunteers from the local community who are trained for the role and receive legal advice in court.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Most magistrates are lay volunteers who receive training and legal advice in court; a minority are professional district judges.

Question 108 · UK-C5-132

If a defendant is found not guilty, what happens?

• A. They are acquitted and are free to go · Correct answer
• B. They are fined a smaller amount
• C. They must serve half the usual sentence
• D. The case is automatically retried with a new jury

A defendant who is found not guilty is acquitted, which means the charge has not been proved. The defendant is then free to go.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: An acquittal means the charge has not been proved and the defendant is free to leave.

Question 109 · UK-C5-134

At what age can you legally buy alcohol in the UK?

• A. 18 · Correct answer
• B. 16
• C. 17
• D. 21

It is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under 18. That makes 18 the legal age for buying alcohol in the UK.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: It is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under 18, so the legal buying age is 18.

Question 110 · UK-C5-135

At what age can you legally buy tobacco products in the UK?

• A. 16
• B. 18 · Correct answer
• C. 20
• D. There is no minimum age

Tobacco and cigarette papers may not be sold to anyone under 18. So 18 is also the legal buying age for tobacco products.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Tobacco and cigarette papers may not be sold to anyone under 18.

Question 111 · UK-C5-136

What is the minimum age to drive a car in the UK, holding the correct licence?

• A. 16
• B. 18
• C. 17 · Correct answer
• D. 21

You can drive a car from age 17 if you hold the correct licence. A provisional licence may be applied for slightly earlier, but driving a car starts at 17.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: You can drive a car from age 17 with a valid licence; you may apply for a provisional licence slightly earlier.

Question 112 · UK-C5-137

What is the minimum age for marriage in England and Wales?

• A. 16, with parental consent
• B. 16, without any consent needed
• C. 21
• D. 18, with no exceptions · Correct answer

The minimum age for marriage in England and Wales is 18, with no exceptions. Earlier consent based routes no longer apply.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Since February 2023 the minimum age for marriage and civil partnership in England and Wales is 18, with no consent based exceptions.

Question 113 · UK-C5-138

In England and Wales, a 16 year old can marry if their parents agree.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. Since 2023, nobody under 18 can marry or form a civil partnership in England and Wales, even with parental or court consent.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Since 2023 nobody under 18 can marry or form a civil partnership in England and Wales, even with parental or court consent.

Question 114 · UK-C5-139

You must be 18 or over to vote in a UK general election.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. The right to vote in UK Parliamentary elections begins at 18, so you must be 18 or over.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The franchise for UK Parliamentary elections begins at 18.

Question 115 · UK-C5-140

Which statement about legal ages is correct?

• A. You can drive a car at 17 but cannot buy alcohol until you are 18 · Correct answer
• B. You can buy alcohol at 16 but cannot drive a car until you are 18

You can drive a car at 17 with a licence, but you cannot buy alcohol until you are 18. The first statement matches both of those legal ages.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Car driving starts at 17 with a licence; the alcohol purchase age is 18.

Question 116 · UK-C5-141

Which of these do you need by law before driving a car on public roads?

• A. Only a provisional licence, with no insurance
• B. A valid driving licence, insurance and, where required, road tax and an MOT · Correct answer
• C. Permission from your local council
• D. A passport and a bank account

Before driving on public roads you need a valid driving licence and insurance, and the vehicle must be taxed and have a valid MOT where one is required. A provisional licence alone is not enough.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Drivers must hold a valid licence, be insured, and the vehicle must be taxed and have a valid MOT if it needs one.

Question 117 · UK-C5-142

After how long does a car in the UK generally need an annual MOT test?

• A. After its first year
• B. Only when it is sold
• C. Cars never need an MOT
• D. When it is more than three years old · Correct answer

A car generally needs an annual MOT test once it is more than three years old. The test checks safety and roadworthiness.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Cars over three years old must pass an annual MOT test of safety and roadworthiness.

Question 118 · UK-C5-143

Which statement about seatbelts is correct?

• A. Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts where they are fitted, and the driver is responsible for children · Correct answer
• B. Seatbelts are optional for adults in the back seat
• C. Seatbelts are only needed on motorways
• D. Only the driver must wear a seatbelt

Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts where they are fitted. The driver is also responsible for making sure children use the correct restraint or belt.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Seatbelt law requires occupants to use belts where fitted, and drivers are responsible for ensuring children use the correct restraint or belt.

Question 119 · UK-C5-144

It is legal to drive a car without insurance as long as you have a full driving licence.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. Driving without at least third party insurance is an offence, whatever licence the driver holds.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Driving without at least third party insurance is an offence, whatever licence you hold.

Question 120 · UK-C5-145

What is vehicle tax (road tax) used as, and when must it be paid?

• A. A one off payment when you first buy the car
• B. An optional charge that only applies to lorries
• C. A charge you must keep up to date before using the vehicle on public roads · Correct answer
• D. A fine paid only when caught speeding

Vehicle tax must be kept up to date before a vehicle is used on public roads, and driving untaxed is an offence. It is not a one off payment made only when the car is bought.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Vehicles used or kept on public roads must be taxed; the amount depends on the vehicle, and driving untaxed is an offence.

Question 121 · UK-C5-146

Which statement about driving documents is correct?

• A. An MOT certificate proves the driver owns the vehicle
• B. An MOT certificate proves the vehicle passed its roadworthiness test · Correct answer

An MOT certificate shows that a vehicle passed its roadworthiness test of safety and environmental standards. It is not proof of ownership, so the second statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The MOT tests whether a vehicle over three years old meets safety and environmental standards; it is not proof of ownership.

Question 122 · UK-C5-147

How do most employees in the UK pay their income tax?

• A. It is deducted from their pay by their employer through PAYE · Correct answer
• B. They pay it all in one payment at the end of the year
• C. The local council collects it with council tax
• D. They do not pay income tax at all

Most employees pay income tax through PAYE, which stands for Pay As You Earn. The employer deducts tax and National Insurance from wages before paying the employee.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Under PAYE (Pay As You Earn), employers deduct income tax and National Insurance from wages before paying employees.

Question 123 · UK-C5-148

What do National Insurance contributions help to pay for?

• A. Local libraries and parks only
• B. The State Pension and certain other benefits · Correct answer
• C. The cost of the armed forces only
• D. Private health insurance for employees

National Insurance contributions help to pay for the State Pension and certain other benefits. A person's contribution record also affects their entitlement to those benefits.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: National Insurance contributions fund the State Pension and certain welfare benefits, and your record affects your entitlement.

Question 124 · UK-C5-149

What does council tax mainly help to fund?

• A. The National Health Service
• B. International aid
• C. Local services such as refuse collection, libraries and local roads · Correct answer
• D. The State Pension

Council tax is charged by local authorities and mainly helps to fund local services. Those services include refuse collection, libraries and local roads.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Council tax is charged by local authorities and helps pay for local services in the area.

Question 125 · UK-C5-150

What is VAT?

• A. A tax paid only by visitors to the UK
• B. A charge for using the motorways
• C. A yearly tax on owning a television
• D. A tax on the sale of many goods and services, included in the price the customer pays · Correct answer

VAT, or Value Added Tax, is a tax on the sale of many goods and services. Businesses include it in the price the customer pays and pass it to HM Revenue and Customs.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Value Added Tax is a tax on many goods and services; businesses charge it in their prices and pass it to HM Revenue and Customs.

Question 126 · UK-C5-151

Self employed people may need to complete a tax return to declare their income instead of paying tax through PAYE.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. People who are self employed generally report their income through a Self Assessment tax return rather than paying all their tax through PAYE.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: People who are self employed or have other untaxed income generally report it through Self Assessment tax returns.

Question 127 · UK-C5-152

Which statement about income tax is correct?

• A. Under PAYE, an employer deducts tax from an employee's wages · Correct answer
• B. Under PAYE, employees receive their full wages and never owe any tax

Under PAYE, an employer deducts tax from the pay of an employee at source. Employees do not simply receive everything gross and owe no tax, so the first statement is correct.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: PAYE means tax is taken at source from pay, rather than the employee receiving everything gross.

Question 128 · UK-C5-153

Which statement best describes the National Health Service?

• A. Patients must pay the full cost of every treatment in advance
• B. It is free at the point of use for UK residents, funded mainly through taxation · Correct answer
• C. It is only available to people in paid employment
• D. It covers hospitals but never GP appointments

The National Health Service is free at the point of use for UK residents. It is funded mainly through taxation, and patients do not pay the full cost of treatment in advance.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: NHS care is largely free at the point of use for residents and is funded mainly from general taxation and National Insurance.

Question 129 · UK-C5-154

When you move to a new area, what should you do to access routine NHS care?

• A. Wait until you need hospital treatment
• B. Register with the local council
• C. Buy private insurance first
• D. Register with a local GP practice · Correct answer

When you move to a new area, you should register with a local GP practice. The GP practice is the usual first point of contact for routine, non-emergency NHS care.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: People should register with a local GP (doctor's) practice, which is the usual first point of contact for non-emergency NHS care.

Question 130 · UK-C5-155

Which statement about NHS charges is correct?

• A. GP and hospital care is generally free, but charges may apply for things like dentists, opticians and, in England, prescriptions · Correct answer
• B. Everything in the NHS is always free, including all dental treatment
• C. Patients in the UK pay a fee for every GP visit
• D. Only tourists ever pay for NHS treatment

GP and hospital care is generally free, but charges may apply for some services. These include dentists, opticians and, in England, prescriptions.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Core GP and hospital treatment is free, while some services such as NHS dentistry, sight tests and prescriptions in England can carry charges.

Question 131 · UK-C5-156

You must pay a fee each time you see an NHS GP in the UK.

• A. True
• B. False · Correct answer

This statement is false. NHS GP appointments are free at the point of use, and charges apply only to some other services, such as most dental treatment.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: GP appointments are free at the point of use; charges apply only to some other services, such as most dental treatment.

Question 132 · UK-C5-157

Who should you usually contact first for non-emergency health problems?

• A. The Accident and Emergency department
• B. Your local council
• C. Your GP or an NHS service such as 111 · Correct answer
• D. A private hospital

For non-emergency health problems, you should usually contact your GP first, or an NHS service such as 111 when GP services are closed. Emergencies are for 999 or A and E instead.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: For non-urgent problems the first step is usually your GP; NHS 111 gives advice when GP services are closed. Emergencies are 999 or A and E.

Question 133 · UK-C5-158

Between which ages is education compulsory for children in the UK?

• A. 5 to 16 · Correct answer
• B. 3 to 14
• C. 6 to 18
• D. 4 to 21

Education is compulsory for children in the UK between the ages of 5 and 16. Those are the ages the handbook gives for compulsory schooling.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Children must receive education from age 5 to 16 (with later participation rules in England); the handbook states compulsory schooling as 5 to 16.

Question 134 · UK-C5-159

State schools in the UK are free to attend.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. State schools in the UK are free to attend, although parents may pay for extras such as some trips or meals.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Education at state schools is provided free; parents may pay only for extras such as some trips or meals.

Question 135 · UK-C5-160

Which statement about schools in the UK is correct?

• A. All children must attend a fee paying school
• B. Parents may educate children at home if the education is suitable, though most attend school · Correct answer
• C. Children may only be taught in English or Welsh
• D. School attendance is optional from age 11

Most children attend state schools free of charge, but parents may educate children at home if that education is suitable. School attendance is not simply optional from age 11.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Most children attend state schools free of charge, and parents may instead provide suitable education at home.

Question 136 · UK-C5-161

Which of these is a responsibility of people living in the UK?

• A. Deciding court verdicts in cases involving friends
• B. Collecting taxes from your neighbours
• C. Obeying the law and reporting crimes you witness · Correct answer
• D. Refusing to pay for any public service you do not use

People living in the UK are expected to obey the law and to help the police, for example by reporting crimes they witness and giving evidence when required. That makes the third option a responsibility of residents.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Residents are expected to obey the law, treat others with fairness and help the police by reporting crime and giving evidence when required.

Question 137 · UK-C5-162

What must you do if you receive a summons for jury service?

• A. Ignore it if you are busy at work
• B. Send a friend in your place
• C. Pay a fee to avoid attending
• D. Respond to it and attend as instructed, unless you are properly excused or deferred · Correct answer

Jury service is a legal duty. If you receive a summons, you must respond and attend as instructed, unless you are properly excused or your service is deferred.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Jury service is a legal duty: you must reply to the summons and attend unless formally excused or your service is deferred.

Question 138 · UK-C5-164

Volunteering, for example helping a charity or a local community group, is one way people contribute to their community in the UK.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. Volunteering, for example helping a charity or a local community group, is a recognised way of taking part in and supporting community life in the UK.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Volunteering and joining community groups are recognised ways of taking part in and supporting local community life.

Question 139 · UK-C5-165

Which of these is an example of looking after the environment as a resident?

• A. Dumping household waste in a public park
• B. Leaving litter if someone else is paid to clear it
• C. Burning all household rubbish in the garden
• D. Recycling where facilities exist and avoiding waste · Correct answer

Recycling where facilities exist and avoiding waste is an example of looking after the environment as a resident. It helps keep the local environment clean and safe, unlike dumping or burning rubbish.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Residents are encouraged to recycle, reduce waste and help keep their local environment clean and safe.

Question 140 · UK-C5-166

What does treating public services considerately mean in practice?

• A. Using services only when needed and keeping appointments or cancelling them in good time · Correct answer
• B. Complaining loudly so you are seen first
• C. Using emergency services for routine matters
• D. Demanding priority over other patients

Treating public services considerately means using them only when needed and keeping appointments, or cancelling them in good time. It also means not misusing emergency services for routine matters.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Using public services considerately includes keeping or cancelling appointments and not misusing emergency services.

Question 141 · UK-C5-167

Which statement about voting is correct?

• A. Anyone visiting the UK on holiday may vote in a general election
• B. You may vote if you are on the electoral register and meet the eligibility rules · Correct answer

You may vote only if you are on the electoral register and meet the eligibility rules. A person visiting the UK on holiday without the qualifying status cannot vote in a general election.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Voting requires registration and eligibility; visitors without the qualifying status cannot vote in UK Parliamentary elections.

Question 142 · UK-C5-168

What does UK law say about forced marriage?

• A. It is legal if both families agree
• B. It is only an offence if money changes hands
• C. It is a criminal offence to force someone to marry against their will · Correct answer
• D. It is treated as a private family matter with no legal consequences

Forcing someone to marry against their will is a criminal offence in the UK. It is not treated as a private family matter, and protection is available to victims.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Forcing someone into marriage is a criminal offence in the UK, and protection is available to victims, including those taken overseas.

Question 143 · UK-C5-169

What does UK law say about female genital mutilation (FGM)?

• A. It is illegal, including taking someone abroad for it · Correct answer
• B. It is legal for cultural reasons
• C. It is legal if carried out abroad
• D. It is legal with parental consent

Female genital mutilation is illegal in the UK. It is also an offence to take someone abroad for the procedure, so carrying it out overseas does not make it legal.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: FGM is a criminal offence in the UK, and it is also an offence to take a girl abroad for the procedure.

Question 144 · UK-C5-170

Carrying a knife or other weapon in public without a lawful reason can be a criminal offence in the UK.

• A. True · Correct answer
• B. False

This statement is true. Carrying a knife or other weapon in public without a lawful reason or good reason can be a criminal offence in the UK.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Weapons are tightly restricted: carrying an offensive weapon or a bladed article in public without good reason is an offence.

Question 145 · UK-C5-171

How are illegal drugs treated under UK law, in outline?

• A. All illegal drugs are treated the same, with no categories
• B. Drugs are classified into categories such as Class A, B and C, with the most harmful in Class A and carrying the heaviest penalties · Correct answer
• C. Possession of any drug is legal in small amounts
• D. Only selling drugs is against the law; possession never is

Illegal drugs are classified into categories, Class A, B and C, according to harmfulness. The most harmful drugs are in Class A and carry the heaviest penalties, and both possession and supply are offences.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Controlled drugs are classed A, B or C by harmfulness; possession and supply are offences, with Class A attracting the most serious penalties.

Question 146 · UK-C5-172

Which statement about the State Pension is correct?

• A. Everyone receives it automatically at age 60, whatever their record
• B. It is paid only to people who never worked
• C. It is claimed when you reach State Pension age, which depends on your date of birth and is rising; you can check your own age on GOV.UK · Correct answer
• D. It is set by your local council each year

The State Pension is claimed when you reach State Pension age, which depends on your date of birth and is rising. You can check your own State Pension age on GOV.UK, and it is not paid automatically at 60.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: State Pension age depends on date of birth and is being raised in stages; GOV.UK provides a checker, and the pension must be claimed rather than arriving automatically.

Question 147 · UK-C5-173

Which statement about claiming the State Pension is correct?

• A. It does not start on its own; you are invited to claim it as you approach State Pension age · Correct answer
• B. It is paid automatically from age 60 to everyone, whether they claim it or not

The State Pension does not start on its own; you are invited to claim it as you approach State Pension age. It is not paid automatically from age 60 to everyone.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: The State Pension does not begin automatically; the Pension Service invites you to claim before you reach State Pension age.

Question 148 · UK-C5-174

If a criminal case in England and Wales is too serious for a magistrates' court to deal with, what usually happens?

• A. The case is dropped completely
• B. The police decide the verdict instead
• C. The defendant chooses a fine or a trial, as they prefer
• D. The case is sent to the Crown Court for trial or sentencing · Correct answer

If a criminal case in England and Wales is too serious for a magistrates' court, it is usually sent to the Crown Court. The Crown Court has wider sentencing powers and holds jury trials.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Magistrates can pass serious cases up to the Crown Court, which has wider sentencing powers and jury trials.

Question 149 · UK-C5-175

Which NHS service gives urgent health advice by phone when your GP practice is closed and it is not an emergency?

• A. The council tax helpline
• B. NHS 111 · Correct answer
• C. The electoral registration office
• D. Directory enquiries

NHS 111 gives urgent health advice by phone when your GP practice is closed and the problem is not an emergency. It can also direct callers to the right local service.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: NHS 111 provides urgent medical advice and can direct callers to the right local service when GP practices are closed.

Question 150 · UK-C5-176

What is legal aid?

• A. A charity that writes wills for free
• B. Insurance that drivers must buy before using a motorway
• C. A fee charged by courts to witnesses
• D. Government help with the cost of legal advice and representation for people who qualify · Correct answer

Legal aid is government help with the cost of legal advice and representation for people who qualify. It exists so that people who cannot afford legal help can still get it, subject to eligibility rules.

Handbook: Chapter 5, The UK government, the law and your role. Fact tested: Legal aid helps people who cannot afford it to get legal advice and representation, subject to eligibility rules.