The Fixed Term Parliaments Act (FTPA) 2011 sets out the rules for when general elections must be held. Under the FTPA, general elections must be held on the first Thursday in May every five years, unless Parliament is dissolved earlier by a vote of no confidence or by a two-thirds majority of both Houses.
This legislation imposes some limitations on the prime minister's ability to call elections at their discretion, as they must now follow a set timetable.
2. Recall of Parliament Act 2015
The Recall of Parliament Act (RPA) 2015 allows Parliament to be recalled from recess by a vote of at least 55 MPs or by a petition signed by at least 100,000 people.
This legislation gives Parliament more control over the timing of its sessions, and can be used to hold the prime minister to account if they are not acting in accordance with the wishes of the House of Commons.
3. Ministerial Code
The Ministerial Code is a set of rules and standards that govern the conduct of ministers in the UK government. The code is not legally binding, but it sets out the ethical standards that ministers are expected to uphold.
The code can place limits on the prime minister's actions if they are seen to be acting outside of these ethical standards.
4. Scrutiny by Parliament
Parliament has the power to scrutinise the actions of the prime minister and the government. This scrutiny can take place through parliamentary debates, select committees, and other mechanisms.
This scrutiny can limit the prime minister's ability to act without being held to account.
5. Public opinion
Public opinion can also impose limitations on the prime minister. If the public is unhappy with the prime minister's actions or policies, this can lead to pressure for them to resign or change course.
Public opinion can therefore be a powerful force for limiting the prime minister's power.
6. Pressure from party
The prime minister is also subject to pressure from their own party. If they do not have the support of their party, this can lead to them being ousted or forced to change course.
Party pressure can therefore also be a powerful force for limiting the prime minister's power.
