The Monarch's Constitutional Role in the UK
If the King formally appoints the Prime Minister and gives Royal Assent to Bills, does that mean he actually runs the government? The answer reveals the central idea of a constitutional monarchy: formal authority and practical political power are not the same thing. In the United Kingdom, the Monarch is Head of State, while elected politicians and Parliament make political decisions. The Monarch carries out important constitutional duties without personally governing the country.
This lesson just one in the category UK Government, Parliament and Elections. To access this lesson you need to have a valid learner account, ask your parent to register you now.