The document discusses the functions of political parties in the UK context. It identifies 8 key functions of political parties: 1) developing policy platforms, 2) developing policy options to address problems, 3) recruiting members and leaders, 4) providing opportunities for participation, 5) training political leaders, 6) educating the public, 7) running elections, and 8) reinforcing consent for parliamentary democracy. The document also discusses party government in the UK and asks students to identify the three most important functions of a political party.

1. What colour would a zebra be if it lost
all it’s stripes?

2. Functions of political parties
To understand the functions of
parties in the modern UK context

3. Party Government
• ‘Party Government’. This is the reality that UK
government is effectively run by parties and
functions through parties. Parties recruit
leaders, organise government and provide
concentrated political will. Membership of a
political party is effectively the only way to
achieve high political office.

4. What are the main functions of a
political party?
• There are 8 key functions – what are they?

5. What are the main functions of a
political party?
o Parties aggregate policies. This means putting aspirational policies
together into coherent political programmes.
o They develop policy options to deal with various political problems.
o They recruit members, activists and leaders.
o They provide opportunities for people to participate in politics in a
responsible manner.
o They are a training ground for political leaders.
o They educate the public about key political issues.
o They help to run elections, ensuring that people vote and are
informed about issues and candidates.
o They reinforce consent for the system of parliamentary democracy
by mobilising support for current political processes and
institutions.

6. The 30 minute manifesto
• In small groups you have 30 minute to
– Create a political party and provide a printed
manifesto of its aims.
– Include at least 3 of the key features and functions
of a political party

7. Which are the three most important
functions of a political party?
• Discuss in groups and be prepared to explain
your answer.

8. • (a) Outline and explain three features of
political parties. (5 marks, 80 words)
• (b) Outline and explain three functions of
political parties. (5 marks, 80 words)