UK Government and the Law: Life in the UK Test Practice Questions
UK Government and the Law is one of the topics covered in the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, which every real test question comes from. It covers: How the UK is governed: Parliament, the monarchy, the devolved administrations, elections, the courts, the law, and the rights and responsibilities of residents.
Of the 696 questions in our practice bank, 141 are Government and the Law questions. On a typical 24-question test you can expect roughly 5 from this topic. Below are 10 sample questions with answers and explanations to show you exactly what to prepare for.
Sample Government and the Law Questions and Answers
Try each question before expanding the answer. Every question below also appears in one of our free practice tests.
1. What is democracy defined as in the context of British government?
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Explanation
Democracy is a system of government where the whole adult population gets a say, either by direct voting or by choosing representatives.
2. In whose name are all Acts of Parliament made?
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Explanation
All Acts of Parliament are made in the Majesty's name.
3. What happens if an MP dies or resigns from their position?
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Explanation
If an MP dies or resigns, there will be a fresh election, called a by-election, in his or her constituency.
4. What body handles complaints about the police in Scotland?
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Explanation
Complaints about the police can be made to an independent body. In Scotland, this is the Police Complaints Commissioner for Scotland. In England and Wales it is the Independent Police Complaints Commission, and in Northern Ireland it is the Police Ombudsman.
5. When is the electoral register updated every year?
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Explanation
The electoral register is updated every year in September or October. An electoral registration form is sent to every household and must be completed and returned with the names of everyone who is resident and eligible to vote.
6. How many parliamentary constituencies are there in the UK?
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Explanation
There are 650 parliamentary constituencies in the UK, each represented by one MP in the House of Commons.
7. Which of the following statements about St Helena is correct?
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Explanation
St Helena is a British overseas territory, but overseas territories are not part of the United Kingdom itself. They have their own governments and are linked to the UK but are constitutionally separate.
8. Which of the following statements about marital rape in the UK is correct?
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Explanation
In the UK, it is a criminal offence for a man to force his wife to have sex. The law recognises marital rape as a crime, and offenders can be prosecuted regardless of marital status.
9. What is the legal position on female genital mutilation (FGM) in the UK?
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Explanation
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a serious criminal offence in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl or woman abroad for FGM, or to help anyone carry out the procedure, regardless of age or consent.
10. Where can constituents contact their Member of Parliament?
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Explanation
MPs can be contacted at their Westminster office or at their local constituency office. They also hold regular surgeries where constituents can meet them in person.
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Every full test includes Government and the Law questions alongside the other four categories, in the same mix as the real exam.