Life in the UK Test Chapter 5 questions — Government, Law and Your Role

1. In which year was the voting age lowered to 18?

1. 1918
2. 1928
3. 1949
4. 1969

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Answer: D — 1969

The voting age came down from 21 to 18 in 1969 and has remained there ever since.

2. What does the term 'the franchise' mean?

1. The number of people who have the right to vote
2. The right to stand as a member of Parliament
3. A payment made to members of Parliament
4. The area of the country an MP represents

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Answer: A — The number of people who have the right to vote

The franchise is the size of the electorate, and it grew steadily through the 19th century.

3. At the turn of the 19th century, which men were entitled to vote in elections for MPs?

1. Men over 21 who owned a certain amount of property
2. All men over the age of 21
3. Men over 18 who paid income tax
4. Men over 30 who belonged to a trade union

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Answer: A — Men over 21 who owned a certain amount of property

Voting was limited to men aged over 21 who met a property qualification, so only a small group could take part.

4. In 1215, King John's noblemen forced him to agree to which document?

1. Magna Carta
2. The Habeas Corpus Act
3. The Declaration of Rights
4. The Bill of Rights

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Answer: A — Magna Carta

Magna Carta, the 'Great Charter', restricted the king's power to raise taxes or change laws and is often called the beginning of constitutional democracy.

5. Which Act, passed in 1679, guarantees that nobody can be held prisoner unlawfully?

1. The Habeas Corpus Act
2. Magna Carta
3. The Great Reform Act
4. The Equal Franchise Act

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Answer: A — The Habeas Corpus Act

The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 protects against unlawful imprisonment and remains relevant today.

6. Who ruled as 'Lord Protector' until his death in 1658?

1. Oliver Cromwell
2. Charles I
3. Charles II
4. William of Orange

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Answer: A — Oliver Cromwell

After the execution of Charles I, England became a republic with Oliver Cromwell ruling as Lord Protector.

7. In 1660, Parliament invited Charles II back from exile in which country?

1. The Netherlands
2. France
3. Spain
4. Portugal

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Answer: A — The Netherlands

The Restoration of 1660 brought Charles II back from the Netherlands on the understanding that he would sometimes need Parliament.

8. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In 1918 the vote was extended to women over 30 and to all men over 21.
2. In 1918 the vote was extended to women over 21 and to all men over 18.

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Answer: A — In 1918 the vote was extended to women over 30 and to all men over 21.

The 1918 extension set the age bar at 30 for women and removed the property qualification for men over 21; equal voting at 21 came only in 1928.

9. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 removed James II without a battle.
2. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 removed James II after a long civil war.

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Answer: A — The Glorious Revolution of 1688 removed James II without a battle.

James II was removed peacefully when Parliament invited William of Orange to take the throne, which is why 1688 is called the Glorious Revolution.

10. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The Chartists' campaign was generally judged a failure at the time, yet most of their reforms had become reality by 1918.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: A — TRUE

The Chartists lost in their own lifetime but nearly all of their six demands were law within a century.

11. Which TWO of the following were among the six changes demanded by the Chartists?

1. Secret ballots
2. Payment for MPs
3. Votes for women over 30
4. Abolition of the House of Lords

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Answer: A and B — Secret ballots; Payment for MPs

The Chartists' six demands included secret ballots and payment for MPs, but said nothing about votes for women or abolishing the Lords.

12. Why is the UK described as having an 'unwritten' constitution?

1. It is not set down in any single document
2. It exists only as spoken tradition
3. It was destroyed during the Civil War
4. It is recorded only in Magna Carta

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Answer: A — It is not set down in any single document

Britain's constitutional rules have developed over centuries rather than being gathered into one written document.

13. Who is the heir to the throne?

1. Prince William, the Prince of Wales
2. Queen Camilla
3. Prince Harry
4. The Princess Royal

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Answer: A — Prince William, the Prince of Wales

The King's eldest son, Prince William, Prince of Wales, is next in line to the throne.

14. When did the reign of King Charles III begin?

1. September 2022
2. June 1953
3. April 2011
4. March 2006

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Answer: A — September 2022

Charles III became King on the death of his mother in September 2022.

15. What is the National Anthem of the UK?

1. 'God Save the King'
2. 'Land of Hope and Glory'
3. 'Jerusalem'
4. 'Rule, Britannia!'

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Answer: A — 'God Save the King'

'God Save the King' is played at important national occasions and at events attended by the King or Royal Family.

16. What does the King's speech at the opening of each new parliamentary session set out?

1. The government's plans
2. The date of the next General Election
3. The Budget and the year's tax rates
4. The membership of the cabinet

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Answer: A — The government's plans

Opening Parliament each year with a speech summarising the government's plans is one of the monarch's ceremonial duties.

17. Whom does the King invite to become Prime Minister after a democratic election?

1. The leader of the party with the most MPs
2. The Speaker of the House of Commons
3. The longest-serving member of Parliament
4. The leader of the largest party in the House of Lords

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Answer: A — The leader of the party with the most MPs

The King appoints the government the people have chosen, inviting the leader of the largest party, or of a coalition, to be Prime Minister.

18. In the citizenship oath, allegiance is sworn to King Charles the Third and to whom else?

1. His Heirs and Successors
2. His ministers
3. The Prime Minister
4. The House of Commons

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Answer: A — His Heirs and Successors

Both the oath and the affirmation pledge faithfulness to the King, his Heirs and Successors, according to law.

19. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The UK is a constitutional monarchy and the King does not rule the country.
2. The UK is an absolute monarchy in which the King decides government policy.

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Answer: A — The UK is a constitutional monarchy and the King does not rule the country.

In a constitutional monarchy policy decisions rest with the Prime Minister and cabinet, while the King may advise, warn and encourage.

20. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The devolved governments have the power to legislate on certain issues.
2. The devolved governments may only advise Westminster and cannot make laws.

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Answer: A — The devolved governments have the power to legislate on certain issues.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have devolved governments able to legislate on certain matters.

21. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Every Act of Parliament is made in the Prime Minister's name.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: B — FALSE

FALSE — although Parliament makes the laws, each Act is formally made in the name of the MONARCH.

22. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? King Charles III is head of state of the UK only, and of no other country.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: B — FALSE

The King is also monarch or head of state of many Commonwealth countries besides the UK.

23. Which TWO of the following are among the main constitutional institutions of the UK?

1. The judiciary
2. The civil service
3. The Commonwealth Secretariat
4. The European Commission

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Answer: A and B — The judiciary; The civil service

The list of constitutional institutions includes the judiciary and the civil service, alongside the monarchy, Parliament, the Prime Minister, the cabinet, the police and local government.

24. Which TWO chambers form the UK Parliament?

1. The House of Commons
2. The House of Lords
3. The House of Representatives
4. The Senate

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Answer: A and B — The House of Commons; The House of Lords

Parliament is made up of two chambers, the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The House of Representatives and the Senate are chambers in other countries' systems, not in the UK.

25. Why is the House of Commons regarded as the more important of the two chambers?

1. Its members are democratically elected
2. It is the older of the two chambers
3. Its members are appointed by the monarch
4. Its members are specialists in their fields

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Answer: A — Its members are democratically elected

The Commons carries greater weight because voters elect its members, unlike the peers of the House of Lords.

26. Members of the House of Lords are known as what?

1. Peers
2. Councillors
3. Shadow ministers
4. Members of the Senedd

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Answer: A — Peers

Peers are not elected and represent no constituency.

27. Until which year was every peer either a hereditary peer, a senior judge or a bishop of the Church of England?

1. 1958
2. 1928
3. 1969
4. 1999

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Answer: A — 1958

From 1958 the Prime Minister could nominate life peers, which changed the make-up of the Lords.

28. Since which year have hereditary peers lost their automatic right to attend the House of Lords?

1. 1999
2. 1958
3. 1972
4. 2004

Show answer

Answer: A — 1999

Since 1999 hereditary peers have elected a small number of their own to represent them instead of all attending by right.

29. How is the Speaker of the House of Commons chosen?

1. MPs elect the Speaker among themselves by secret ballot
2. The Prime Minister appoints the Speaker
3. The monarch appoints the Speaker
4. Voters elect the Speaker at a General Election

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Answer: A — MPs elect the Speaker among themselves by secret ballot

The Speaker is an MP chosen by fellow MPs in a secret ballot, and remains politically neutral in the chair.

30. What is a by-election?

1. A fresh contest held when an MP dies or resigns
2. An election held within the House of Lords
3. A vote among MPs to choose the Speaker
4. A public vote on a single national issue

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Answer: A — A fresh contest held when an MP dies or resigns

When a seat falls vacant between General Elections, that constituency holds a by-election to choose a new MP.

31. Under the 'first past the post' system, which candidate wins in a constituency?

1. The candidate with the most votes
2. The candidate with more than half of all votes
3. The candidate chosen by the largest party
4. The candidate approved by the Speaker

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Answer: A — The candidate with the most votes

First past the post awards the seat to whoever polls the most votes, whether or not that is a majority.

32. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? At a General Election, the voters in each constituency elect one member of Parliament.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: A — TRUE

The country is divided into constituencies, each returning a single MP to the House of Commons.

33. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The House of Lords has the power to overrule the House of Commons.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

It is the Commons that can overrule the Lords, although that power is not used often.

34. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The Speaker of the House of Commons is politically neutral and represents no party.
2. The Speaker of the House of Commons speaks for the governing party in debates.

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Answer: A — The Speaker of the House of Commons is politically neutral and represents no party.

The Speaker chairs debates impartially and must guarantee the opposition its time, despite still serving a constituency as an MP.

35. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. A General Election is held at least every five years.
2. A General Election is held at least every three years.

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Answer: A — A General Election is held at least every five years.

Five years is the maximum interval between General Elections.

36. Which TWO of the following are responsibilities of a member of Parliament?

1. Helping to create new laws
2. Scrutinising and commenting on what the government is doing
3. Appointing members of the cabinet
4. Choosing the head of state

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Answer: A and B — Helping to create new laws; Scrutinising and commenting on what the government is doing

An MP represents everyone in the constituency, helps make laws, scrutinises the government and debates national issues.

37. Where can you raise an issue with your MP face to face?

1. At a local 'surgery'
2. Only at the House of Commons
3. At a polling station
4. At the Electoral Registration Office

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Answer: A — At a local 'surgery'

Many MPs, Senedd members and MSPs hold regular local 'surgeries', usually advertised in the local paper, where constituents can raise issues in person.

38. Which member of the cabinet is responsible for the economy?

1. The Chancellor of the Exchequer
2. The Home Secretary
3. The Foreign Secretary
4. The Secretary of State for Defence

Show answer

Answer: A — The Chancellor of the Exchequer

The Chancellor of the Exchequer holds the government's economic brief.

39. Which member of the cabinet is responsible for crime, policing and immigration?

1. The Home Secretary
2. The Foreign Secretary
3. The Chancellor of the Exchequer
4. The Speaker of the House of Commons

Show answer

Answer: A — The Home Secretary

The Home Secretary takes charge of crime, policing and immigration, while the Foreign Secretary handles relations with other countries.

40. What is the name of the Prime Minister's country house outside London?

1. Chequers
2. Balmoral
3. Sandringham
4. Stormont

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Answer: A — Chequers

Besides 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister has the use of a country house called Chequers.

41. Which party forms the opposition?

1. The second-largest party in the House of Commons
2. The largest party in the House of Lords
3. The party with the fewest MPs
4. Any party that is not in a coalition

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Answer: A — The second-largest party in the House of Commons

The second-largest party in the Commons forms the opposition, and its leader usually becomes Prime Minister if it wins the next election.

42. What does the abbreviation CBI stand for?

1. The Confederation of British Industry
2. The Council of British Institutions
3. The Committee for British Investment
4. The Chamber of British Interests

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Answer: A — The Confederation of British Industry

The CBI is a lobby group that speaks for British business.

43. Which of the following is one of the core values of the civil service?

1. Impartiality
2. Party loyalty
3. Seniority
4. Private lobbying

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Answer: A — Impartiality

Civil servants are expected to uphold integrity, honesty, objectivity and impartiality, which includes staying politically neutral.

44. Who appoints senior MPs as 'shadow ministers'?

1. The leader of the opposition
2. The Prime Minister
3. The Speaker
4. The monarch

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Answer: A — The leader of the opposition

The leader of the opposition names shadow ministers, who together form the shadow cabinet and put forward alternative policies.

45. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The Prime Minister's official home is 10 Downing Street in central London.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: A — TRUE

10 Downing Street, close to the Houses of Parliament, is the Prime Minister's official residence.

46. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? For most local authorities, elections for councillors are held in November every year.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

Council elections for most local authorities take place in May each year.

47. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Civil servants are chosen on merit and are politically neutral.
2. Civil servants are political appointees chosen by the governing party.

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Answer: A — Civil servants are chosen on merit and are politically neutral.

Civil servants serve whichever government is in power, so they are appointed on merit rather than for their politics.

48. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Prime Minister's Questions is held every week while Parliament is sitting.
2. Prime Minister's Questions is held once a month while Parliament is sitting.

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Answer: A — Prime Minister's Questions is held every week while Parliament is sitting.

Prime Minister's Questions gives the opposition a weekly chance to challenge the government in the Commons.

49. Which TWO of the following are pressure or lobby groups that try to influence government policy?

1. Greenpeace
2. Liberty
3. The Home Office
4. The cabinet

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Answer: A and B — Greenpeace; Liberty

Greenpeace campaigns on the environment and Liberty on human rights; both are organisations outside government that try to influence its policy. The Home Office is a government department and the cabinet is the committee of senior ministers, so both are part of the government itself.

50. How often do the main political parties hold policy-making conferences?

1. Every year
2. Every five years
3. Only before a general election
4. Every six months

Show answer

Answer: A — Every year

The main parties have branches in most constituencies and hold policy-making conferences every year.

51. How many members does the Senedd have?

1. 60
2. 90
3. 129
4. 33

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Answer: A — 60

The Senedd has 60 members, elected every four years by a form of proportional representation.

52. Where does the Scottish Parliament sit?

1. Edinburgh
2. Glasgow
3. Cardiff
4. Stormont

Show answer

Answer: A — Edinburgh

The Scottish Parliament, formed in 1999, sits in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital.

53. The present Northern Ireland Assembly was established soon after which agreement?

1. The Belfast Agreement of 1998
2. The Anglo-Irish Agreement of 1985
3. The Act of Union of 1922
4. The Devolution Act of 1997

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Answer: A — The Belfast Agreement of 1998

The Belfast Agreement, also called the Good Friday Agreement, was signed in 1998 and led to the present Assembly.

54. What are the official published reports of parliamentary proceedings called?

1. Hansard
2. The Gazette
3. The Journal
4. The Register

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Answer: A — Hansard

Hansard records everything Parliament does and can be read in large libraries and online.

55. The Northern Ireland Parliament established in 1922 was abolished in which year?

1. 1972
2. 1969
3. 1998
4. 1999

Show answer

Answer: A — 1972

The 1922 Parliament was abolished in 1972, shortly after the Troubles broke out in 1969.

56. When did the Senedd building in Cardiff open?

1. March 2006
2. October 2004
3. May 1999
4. July 1997

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Answer: A — March 2006

The Senedd building opened in March 2006, while the Scottish Parliament's building had opened in October 2004.

57. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The Northern Ireland Assembly has 108 elected members, known as MLAs.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: A — TRUE

The official handbook gives 108 Members of the Legislative Assembly, chosen by a form of proportional representation, and the test marks against the handbook. In practice the number was cut to 90 from 2017 — answer 108.

58. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The UK government has no power to suspend the devolved assemblies.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

Westminster retains the power to suspend the devolved assemblies and has used it several times in Northern Ireland.

59. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The Scottish Parliament has 129 members, known as MSPs.
2. The Scottish Parliament has 60 members, known as MSPs.

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Answer: A — The Scottish Parliament has 129 members, known as MSPs.

Scotland returns 129 MSPs; it is the Senedd that has 60 members.

60. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Radio and television coverage of the political parties must by law be balanced.
2. Newspapers must by law give equal space to all of the political parties.

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Answer: A — Radio and television coverage of the political parties must by law be balanced.

Broadcasters are legally required to give equal time to rival viewpoints, while the press is free from government control.

61. Which TWO of the following are matters decided by the devolved administrations?

1. Education
2. Health and social services
3. Defence
4. Social security

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Answer: A and B — Education; Health and social services

Education and health are devolved, whereas defence and social security are reserved to the UK government.

62. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In the Northern Ireland Assembly, a power-sharing agreement distributes ministerial offices among the main parties.
2. In the Northern Ireland Assembly, all ministerial offices are held by the largest party.

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Answer: A — In the Northern Ireland Assembly, a power-sharing agreement distributes ministerial offices among the main parties.

The Northern Ireland Assembly operates under a power-sharing agreement which distributes ministerial offices among the main parties.

63. On election day, when are polling stations open?

1. From 7.00 am until 10.00 pm
2. From 8.00 am until 8.00 pm
3. From 9.00 am until 5.00 pm
4. From 6.00 am until midnight

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Answer: A — From 7.00 am until 10.00 pm

Polling stations are open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm on the day of the election.

64. What are polling stations called in Scotland?

1. Polling places
2. Polling booths
3. Ballot halls
4. Election centres

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Answer: A — Polling places

The Scottish term for a polling station is a polling place.

65. What must be true before you can vote in a parliamentary or local election?

1. Your name must be on the electoral register
2. You must own property in the constituency
3. You must belong to a political party
4. You must have voted at least once before

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Answer: A — Your name must be on the electoral register

Registration on the electoral register is a legal requirement before you can cast a vote.

66. In which month does the annual canvass of households begin each year?

1. July
2. January
3. April
4. October

Show answer

Answer: A — July

From July each year households are contacted to check that the electoral register's details are up to date.

67. Since which year has the UK had a fully democratic voting system?

1. 1928
2. 1918
3. 1969
4. 1832

Show answer

Answer: A — 1928

1928 brought equal voting rights for men and women, completing the democratic franchise.

68. How does a postal ballot work?

1. Your ballot paper is sent to your home and you post it back
2. You vote by telephone on election day
3. You vote at any post office on election day
4. A council officer collects your vote at your home

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Answer: A — Your ballot paper is sent to your home and you post it back

A postal ballot suits anyone who would find it difficult to reach a polling station, and can be chosen when you register to vote.

69. What will the staff at the polling station ask you for?

1. Your name, address and photo ID
2. Your National Insurance number
3. Your birth certificate
4. A signed statement from a witness

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Answer: A — Your name, address and photo ID

Voters must give their name and address and show accepted photo identification before receiving a ballot paper.

70. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? If your name, address or nationality changes, you must register to vote again.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

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Answer: A — TRUE

A change of name, address or nationality means the register is out of date, so you must register again.

71. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Your employer has the right to tell you which candidate to vote for.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

The ballot is filled in privately and nobody may compel you to vote for a particular candidate.

72. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Members of the House of Lords cannot stand for election to the House of Commons.
2. Members of the House of Lords may stand for election to the House of Commons.

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Answer: A — Members of the House of Lords cannot stand for election to the House of Commons.

Peers are barred from standing for the Commons, though they remain eligible for other public offices.

73. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Each local authority must by law let anyone inspect its electoral register, under supervision.
2. The electoral register is confidential and cannot be inspected by members of the public.

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Answer: A — Each local authority must by law let anyone inspect its electoral register, under supervision.

The register may be inspected by anyone, but only under supervision at the electoral registration or council office.

74. Which TWO of the following may not stand for public office?

1. Civil servants
2. Members of the armed forces
3. People aged over 70
4. Commonwealth citizens resident in the UK

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Answer: A and B — Civil servants; Members of the armed forces

Civil servants and members of the armed forces are barred from standing, as are people found guilty of certain criminal offences.

75. In Northern Ireland, what is the system for getting on the electoral register called?

1. Individual registration
2. Household registration
3. The annual canvass
4. Automatic enrolment

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Answer: A — Individual registration

Northern Ireland uses 'individual registration': everyone entitled to vote completes their own registration form, and stays on the register as long as their personal details do not change.

76. According to the official study material, members elected to the European Parliament are known as what?

1. MEPs
2. MSPs
3. MLAs
4. JPs

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Answer: A — MEPs

The study material describes European Parliament elections held every five years, electing MEPs by a system of proportional representation. The UK left the EU in 2020, but the test marks against the study material.

77. Where do MSPs meet?

1. In the Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood in Edinburgh
2. At Stormont in Belfast
3. In the Senedd building in Cardiff Bay
4. In the Palace of Westminster in London

Show answer

Answer: A — In the Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood in Edinburgh

Scotland's elected members, the MSPs, sit in the Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood in Edinburgh.

78. What are the elected members of the Welsh legislature known as?

1. MSPs
2. MSs
3. MLAs
4. MPs

Show answer

Answer: B — MSs

In Wales the elected members are MSs, or Members of the Senedd, who meet in Cardiff Bay.

79. What are the elected members of the Northern Ireland Assembly known as?

1. MLAs
2. MSs
3. MSPs
4. JPs

Show answer

Answer: A — MLAs

Members of the Northern Ireland Assembly are called MLAs.

80. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Entrance to the public galleries at the Palace of Westminster is free.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Whether you obtain tickets from your MP or queue on the day, there is no charge to enter.

81. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. It is usually easier to get into the public gallery of the House of Lords than that of the House of Commons.
2. It is usually easier to get into the public gallery of the House of Commons than that of the House of Lords.

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Answer: A — It is usually easier to get into the public gallery of the House of Lords than that of the House of Commons.

Demand for the Commons gallery is much heavier, so the Lords is the easier chamber to get into.

82. Which TWO of the following are ways to get into the public galleries at the Palace of Westminster?

1. Write to your local MP in advance and ask for tickets
2. Queue on the day at the public entrance
3. Pay an entrance fee at the public entrance
4. Book a seat through the Senedd Booking Service

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Answer: A and B — Write to your local MP in advance and ask for tickets; Queue on the day at the public entrance

There are only two routes in at Westminster: tickets requested in advance from your MP, or queueing on the day.

83. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? People queueing for the House of Commons public gallery often wait at least one or two hours.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Queues for the Commons are frequently long, with waits of an hour or two being common.

84. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The Northern Ireland Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast.
2. The Northern Ireland Assembly meets at Holyrood in Edinburgh.

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Answer: A — The Northern Ireland Assembly meets at Stormont in Belfast.

Stormont in Belfast is the home of the Northern Ireland Assembly; Holyrood is in Edinburgh.

85. Which service handles bookings for guided tours and public gallery seats at the Senedd?

1. The Senedd Booking Service
2. The Northern Ireland Assembly Education Service
3. Holyrood visitor services
4. The House of Lords ticket office

Show answer

Answer: A — The Senedd Booking Service

Tours and gallery seats in Cardiff Bay are booked through the Senedd Booking Service.

86. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The UK is a member of NATO.
2. The UK has never been a member of NATO.

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Answer: A — The UK is a member of NATO.

The UK is a member of NATO, the alliance whose members agree to help one another if attacked.

87. How many member states does the Commonwealth currently have?

1. 27
2. 46
3. 52
4. 56

Show answer

Answer: D — 56

The Commonwealth currently has 56 member states spread across every inhabited continent.

88. Who is the ceremonial head of the Commonwealth?

1. The King
2. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
3. The Secretary-General of the United Nations
4. The President of the Council of Europe

Show answer

Answer: A — The King

The King is the ceremonial head of the Commonwealth, which has no power over its members.

89. How many member countries does the Council of Europe have?

1. 15
2. 27
3. 46
4. 56

Show answer

Answer: C — 46

The Council of Europe has 46 member countries, including the UK, and works on human rights.

90. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The Council of Europe has the power to make laws that bind its member countries.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

The Council of Europe cannot make laws; it draws up conventions and charters instead.

91. Which TWO of the following statements about the Commonwealth are correct?

1. Membership of the Commonwealth is voluntary.
2. The Commonwealth can suspend a member's membership.
3. The Commonwealth can make laws for its member states.
4. Every Commonwealth member was once part of the British Empire.

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Answer: A and B — Membership of the Commonwealth is voluntary.; The Commonwealth can suspend a member's membership.

Membership is voluntary and the only sanction available is suspension, since the Commonwealth has no power over its members.

92. What is the best known of the conventions and charters drawn up by the Council of Europe?

1. The European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
2. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
3. The North Atlantic Treaty
4. The Bill of Rights

Show answer

Answer: A — The European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

The Council of Europe's most famous instrument is the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

93. How many members does the UN Security Council have?

1. 5
2. 15
3. 46
4. 56

Show answer

Answer: B — 15

The Security Council has 15 members and recommends action in international crises and threats to peace.

94. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The UK is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
2. The UK is one of the 15 permanent members of the UN Security Council.

Show answer

Answer: A — The UK is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.

The Security Council has 15 members in total, but only five of them, including the UK, are permanent.

95. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The United Nations was set up after the First World War.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

The UN was created after the Second World War to prevent war and promote international peace and security.

96. Roughly how many countries are members of the United Nations?

1. About 46
2. About 56
3. About 100
4. More than 190

Show answer

Answer: D — More than 190

The UN is an international organisation with more than 190 member countries.

97. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. NATO members are European and North American countries that have agreed to help each other if attacked.
2. NATO is the body responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights in its member countries.

Show answer

Answer: A — NATO members are European and North American countries that have agreed to help each other if attacked.

NATO is a mutual defence alliance; human rights protection is the work of the Council of Europe.

98. Which TWO are examples of civil law?

1. Housing law
2. Employment law
3. Drugs law
4. Racial crime law

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Housing law; Employment law

Civil law settles disputes between individuals or groups — housing and employment are civil matters, while drugs offences and racial crime are criminal.

99. Which of the following is an example of civil law?

1. A dispute between a landlord and a tenant about repairs
2. Carrying a knife for self-defence
3. Selling cannabis to a neighbour
4. Causing distress to someone because of their ethnic origin

Show answer

Answer: A — A dispute between a landlord and a tenant about repairs

Housing law, including landlord and tenant disputes over repairs and eviction, is part of civil law.

100. From what age may a person drink alcohol with a meal in a hotel or restaurant?

1. 14
2. 15
3. 16
4. 18

Show answer

Answer: C — 16

People aged 16 or over may drink alcohol with a meal in a hotel or restaurant, the one exception to the rules on under-18s.

101. It is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under what age?

1. 16
2. 17
3. 18
4. 21

Show answer

Answer: C — 18

Cigarettes, cigars and roll-up tobacco may not be sold to anyone under 18.

102. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Carrying a weapon is a criminal offence even if it is carried for self-defence.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Carrying a weapon of any kind is an offence regardless of the reason given for carrying it.

103. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Police forces in the UK are independent of the government.
2. Police forces in the UK are controlled directly by the government.

Show answer

Answer: A — Police forces in the UK are independent of the government.

The police are organised into separate forces that are independent of government control.

104. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Each separate police force is headed by a Chief Constable.
2. Each separate police force is headed by a Police and Crime Commissioner.

Show answer

Answer: A — Each separate police force is headed by a Chief Constable.

The police are organised into a number of separate forces, each headed by a Chief Constable. A Police and Crime Commissioner sets local police priorities and the local policing budget and appoints the local Chief Constable, but does not head the force.

105. When did the public first elect Police and Crime Commissioners in England and Wales?

1. May 2010
2. November 2011
3. November 2012
4. May 2015

Show answer

Answer: C — November 2012

The first Police and Crime Commissioners in England and Wales were elected in November 2012.

106. Which TWO of the following does a Police and Crime Commissioner do?

1. Sets the local policing budget
2. Appoints the local Chief Constable
3. Decides the sentence in minor criminal cases
4. Investigates complaints made against police officers

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Sets the local policing budget; Appoints the local Chief Constable

A PCC sets local police priorities and the budget and appoints the Chief Constable, but takes no part in sentencing.

107. In England and Wales, which independent body can receive complaints about the police?

1. The Independent Police Complaints Commission
2. The Police Ombudsman's Office
3. The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner
4. The Law Society

Show answer

Answer: A — The Independent Police Complaints Commission

The handbook names the Independent Police Complaints Commission for England and Wales, and the test marks against the handbook. Its functions passed to the Independent Office for Police Conduct in 2018 — answer the IPCC.

108. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? One of the duties of the police is to protect life and property.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

The police have three duties: to protect life and property, to prevent disturbances and to prevent and detect crime.

109. Which of the following describes extremism?

1. Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values
2. Taking part in a lawful public protest against a government policy
3. Belonging to a religion followed by only a small number of people
4. Standing for election as an independent candidate

Show answer

Answer: A — Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values

Extremism means vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, and it includes religious extremism and far-right extremism. Lawful protest, religious belief and standing for election are not extremism. Anyone who thinks they are being persuaded to join an extremist or terrorist cause should notify their local police force.

110. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Every person in the UK receives equal treatment under the law.
2. The law in the UK applies differently depending on where a person comes from.

Show answer

Answer: A — Every person in the UK receives equal treatment under the law.

Equal treatment under the law means the law applies in the same way to everyone, no matter who they are or where they are from.

111. Who usually investigates crimes under criminal law?

1. The police or another authority such as a council
2. The civil courts
3. Parliament
4. A jury

Show answer

Answer: A — The police or another authority such as a council

Criminal law relates to crimes, usually investigated by the police or another authority such as a council, and punished by the courts.

112. What is civil law used for?

1. Settling disputes between individuals or groups
2. Punishing crimes
3. Making new legislation
4. Electing Police and Crime Commissioners

Show answer

Answer: A — Settling disputes between individuals or groups

Civil law settles disputes between individuals or groups; criminal law deals with crimes.

113. For the purposes of the law on carrying weapons, what counts as a weapon?

1. A gun, a knife, or anything made or adapted to cause injury
2. Only a firearm
3. Only a bladed article
4. Only a weapon carried with intent to harm

Show answer

Answer: A — A gun, a knife, or anything made or adapted to cause injury

Carrying a weapon of any kind is an offence, even if it is carried for self-defence.

114. Which TWO of the following are named as illegal drugs to sell or buy?

1. Heroin
2. Cannabis
3. Tobacco
4. Alcohol

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Heroin; Cannabis

Selling or buying drugs such as heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis is illegal; tobacco and alcohol are legal but restricted by age.

115. How is racial crime defined?

1. Causing harassment, alarm or distress to someone because of their religion or ethnic origin
2. Any argument between people of different backgrounds
3. Refusing to employ someone
4. Speaking a language other than English in public

Show answer

Answer: A — Causing harassment, alarm or distress to someone because of their religion or ethnic origin

Racial crime is causing harassment, alarm or distress to someone because of their religion or ethnic origin.

116. What is the minimum age for buying tobacco products in the UK?

1. 18
2. 16
3. 21
4. No minimum

Show answer

Answer: A — 18

It is illegal to sell tobacco products — cigarettes, cigars, roll-up tobacco — to anyone under 18.

117. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? It is against the law to smoke tobacco products in nearly every enclosed public place in the UK.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Signs are displayed to tell you where you cannot smoke.

118. What is the exception to the rule that it is a criminal offence to buy alcohol for someone under 18?

1. People aged 16 or over can drink alcohol with a meal in a hotel or restaurant
2. People aged 16 or over can drink anywhere with an adult
3. People aged 14 or over can drink at home
4. There is no exception

Show answer

Answer: A — People aged 16 or over can drink alcohol with a meal in a hotel or restaurant

It is a criminal offence to sell alcohol to anyone under 18 or to buy it for them, except that people aged 16 or over may drink with a meal in a hotel or restaurant.

119. In an alcohol-free zone, which TWO powers do the police have?

1. To confiscate alcohol
2. To move young people on from public places
3. To close nearby shops
4. To impose a prison sentence on the spot

Show answer

Answer: A and B — To confiscate alcohol; To move young people on from public places

Some places have alcohol-free zones where you cannot drink in public; the police can confiscate alcohol or move young people on, and you can be fined or arrested.

120. Which TWO of the following are examples of civil law?

1. Housing law
2. Consumer rights
3. Carrying a weapon
4. Racial crime

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Housing law; Consumer rights

Civil law covers housing disputes, consumer rights, employment law and debt; carrying a weapon and racial crime are criminal offences.

121. Who heads each of the UK's separate police forces?

1. A Chief Constable
2. A Police and Crime Commissioner
3. A magistrate
4. The Home Secretary

Show answer

Answer: A — A Chief Constable

The police are organised into a number of separate forces headed by Chief Constables, and are independent of the government.

122. Which TWO responsibilities belong to a Police and Crime Commissioner?

1. Setting local police priorities and the local policing budget
2. Appointing the local Chief Constable
3. Sentencing offenders
4. Investigating serious crimes

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Setting local police priorities and the local policing budget; Appointing the local Chief Constable

PCCs are directly elected individuals responsible for an efficient and effective police force that reflects local needs.

123. Which TWO things must police officers never do?

1. Misuse their authority
2. Make a false statement
3. Give evidence in court
4. Patrol alone

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Misuse their authority; Make a false statement

Officers must not misuse their authority, make a false statement, be rude or abusive, or commit racial discrimination, and those who are corrupt are severely punished.

124. What do police community support officers (PCSOs) usually do?

1. Patrol the streets, work with the public and support police officers at crime scenes and major events
2. Sit as judges in the magistrates' court
3. Set the local policing budget
4. Investigate complaints against the police

Show answer

Answer: A — Patrol the streets, work with the public and support police officers at crime scenes and major events

PCSO roles vary by area but usually involve patrolling, working with the public and supporting officers.

125. If you are arrested and taken to a police station, which TWO things happen?

1. An officer will tell you the reason for your arrest
2. You will be able to seek legal advice
3. You will be tried immediately
4. You must answer all questions without a solicitor

Show answer

Answer: A and B — An officer will tell you the reason for your arrest; You will be able to seek legal advice

You must be told the reason for your arrest and you are able to seek legal advice.

126. Besides going to a police station, how else can anyone make a complaint about the police?

1. By writing to the Chief Constable of the force involved
2. By writing to their MP only
3. By applying to the Crown Court
4. By contacting the Prime Minister

Show answer

Answer: A — By writing to the Chief Constable of the force involved

Complaints can be made at a police station, by writing to the Chief Constable, or to an independent body.

127. In Northern Ireland, which independent body handles complaints about the police?

1. The Police Ombudsman's Office
2. The Independent Police Complaints Commission
3. The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner
4. The Law Society

Show answer

Answer: A — The Police Ombudsman's Office

Northern Ireland has the Police Ombudsman's Office; Scotland has the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.

128. Besides Al Qa'ida and like-minded organisations, what other kind of terrorism does the UK face?

1. Northern Ireland-related terrorism
2. Maritime piracy
3. Industrial sabotage
4. Cyber fraud

Show answer

Answer: A — Northern Ireland-related terrorism

The most serious threats are named as Al Qa'ida, its affiliates and like-minded organisations, but the UK also faces Northern Ireland-related terrorism.

129. How is 'extremism' defined?

1. Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values
2. Any strongly held political opinion
3. Membership of a political party
4. Refusing to vote

Show answer

Answer: A — Vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values

Extremism includes religious extremism and far-right extremism, and everyone should feel safe from all kinds of it.

130. If you think someone is trying to persuade you to join an extremist or terrorist cause, whom should you notify?

1. Your local police force
2. Your MP
3. The Home Office switchboard
4. Your employer

Show answer

Answer: A — Your local police force

You should notify your local police force.

131. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? If an accused person is aged 18 to 21, their case will be heard in a Youth Court.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

Youth Courts hear cases against people aged 10 to 17; from 18 an accused person goes before the adult courts.

132. In Scotland, which court deals with minor criminal offences?

1. The Justice of the Peace Court
2. The Magistrates' Court
3. The Crown Court
4. The Court of Session

Show answer

Answer: A — The Justice of the Peace Court

Minor criminal offences in Scotland go to a Justice of the Peace Court rather than a Magistrates' Court.

133. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In Northern Ireland, minor criminal cases are heard by a legally qualified, paid District Judge.
2. In Northern Ireland, minor criminal cases are heard by unpaid magistrates with no legal qualifications.

Show answer

Answer: A — In Northern Ireland, minor criminal cases are heard by a legally qualified, paid District Judge.

Northern Ireland differs from the rest of the UK: its minor cases are heard by paid, legally qualified District Judges.

134. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, where are serious offences tried in front of a judge and jury?

1. A Crown Court
2. A Magistrates' Court
3. A County Court
4. A Sheriff Court

Show answer

Answer: A — A Crown Court

Serious offences in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are tried before a judge and jury in a Crown Court.

135. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The Old Bailey is probably the most famous magistrates' court in the world.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

FALSE — the Old Bailey is a CROWN COURT, the best known of them, and is described as probably the most famous criminal court in the world.

136. How many members does a jury have in England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

1. 10
2. 12
3. 15
4. 24

Show answer

Answer: B — 12

Juries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have 12 members.

137. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In Scotland a jury has 15 members.
2. In Scotland a jury has 12 members.

Show answer

Answer: A — In Scotland a jury has 15 members.

Scottish juries are larger than those elsewhere in the UK, with 15 members rather than 12.

138. Which verdict is available in Scotland in addition to 'guilty' and 'not guilty'?

1. 'Not proven'
2. 'No case to answer'
3. 'Undecided'
4. 'Discharged'

Show answer

Answer: A — 'Not proven'

Scottish juries may return a third verdict of 'not proven'.

139. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? When a jury finds a defendant guilty, the jury also decides the penalty.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

The jury decides guilt and the judge decides the penalty.

140. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, cases against accused people of what age are normally heard in a Youth Court?

1. 10 to 17
2. 12 to 16
3. 14 to 18
4. 16 to 21

Show answer

Answer: A — 10 to 17

Accused people aged 10 to 17 normally appear in a Youth Court, although the most serious cases still go to the Crown Court.

141. Which TWO of the following are true of Youth Courts in England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

1. Members of the public are not allowed in.
2. The name of the accused young person cannot be published in newspapers.
3. The case is heard by a jury of 12.
4. Parents or carers are not allowed to attend.

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Members of the public are not allowed in.; The name of the accused young person cannot be published in newspapers.

Youth Courts are closed to the public and protect the young person's identity, while parents or carers are expected to attend.

142. In England and Wales, the small claims procedure is used for claims of less than how much?

1. £3,000
2. £5,000
3. £10,000
4. £15,000

Show answer

Answer: C — £10,000

The small claims limit is under £10,000 in England and Wales, compared with £5,000 in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

143. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In Scotland, more serious civil cases are dealt with in the Court of Session in Edinburgh.
2. In Scotland, more serious civil cases are dealt with in the County Court in Edinburgh.

Show answer

Answer: A — In Scotland, more serious civil cases are dealt with in the Court of Session in Edinburgh.

Scotland's more serious civil cases go to the Court of Session in Edinburgh; County Courts exist elsewhere in the UK.

144. What are judges together called?

1. The judiciary
2. The magistracy
3. The bench of peers
4. The bar

Show answer

Answer: A — The judiciary

Judges — the judiciary — interpret the law and make sure trials are conducted fairly, and the government cannot interfere with this.

145. If judges agree that an action of the government is illegal, the government must do which TWO things?

1. Change its policies
2. Or ask Parliament to change the law
3. Resign
4. Pay a fine to the court

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Change its policies; Or ask Parliament to change the law

The government must either change its policies or ask Parliament to change the law.

146. If judges find that a public body is not respecting someone's legal rights, they can order it to do which TWO things?

1. Change its practices
2. Pay compensation
3. Dismiss its staff
4. Close down

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Change its practices; Pay compensation

Judges can order a public body to change its practices, to pay compensation, or both.

147. In England, Wales and Scotland, magistrates and Justices of the Peace usually work on what basis?

1. Unpaid, without legal qualifications, with training and a legal adviser
2. Paid, and legally qualified
3. Paid, without legal qualifications
4. Unpaid, but legally qualified

Show answer

Answer: A — Unpaid, without legal qualifications, with training and a legal adviser

They are members of the local community who receive training and are supported by a legal adviser; Northern Ireland instead uses legally qualified, paid District Judges.

148. Who hears minor criminal cases in Northern Ireland?

1. A District Judge or Deputy District Judge, who is legally qualified and paid
2. Unpaid magistrates
3. A sheriff
4. A jury of 15

Show answer

Answer: A — A District Judge or Deputy District Judge, who is legally qualified and paid

Northern Ireland works differently from England, Wales and Scotland on this point.

149. Which court is described as probably the most famous criminal court in the world?

1. The Old Bailey
2. The Court of Session
3. The High Court in Edinburgh
4. The Royal Courts of Justice

Show answer

Answer: A — The Old Bailey

Serious offences in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are tried before a judge and jury in a Crown Court; the Old Bailey is the most famous of them.

150. In Scotland, where are the most serious cases, such as murder, heard?

1. At a High Court, with a judge and jury
2. At a Sheriff Court, with a sheriff sitting alone
3. At a Justice of the Peace Court
4. At a Crown Court

Show answer

Answer: A — At a High Court, with a judge and jury

Serious Scottish cases go to a Sheriff Court with a sheriff alone or with a jury; the most serious go to a High Court.

151. How many members does a jury have in England, Wales and Northern Ireland?

1. 12
2. 15
3. 10
4. 24

Show answer

Answer: A — 12

A jury has 12 members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and 15 in Scotland.

152. Which TWO reasons allow someone summoned for jury service not to serve?

1. They are not eligible, for example because of a criminal conviction
2. They provide a good reason to be excused, such as ill health
3. They are in full-time work
4. They have served on a jury before

Show answer

Answer: A and B — They are not eligible, for example because of a criminal conviction; They provide a good reason to be excused, such as ill health

Everyone summoned must do jury service unless they are ineligible or give a good reason to be excused.

153. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The jury decides guilt and the judge decides the sentence.
2. The jury decides both guilt and the sentence.

Show answer

Answer: A — The jury decides guilt and the judge decides the sentence.

The jury decides a verdict on the evidence; if it finds the defendant guilty, the judge decides the penalty.

154. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, an accused person of what age is normally tried in a Youth Court?

1. 10 to 17
2. 12 to 18
3. 10 to 21
4. 16 to 18

Show answer

Answer: A — 10 to 17

Youth Court cases are heard by up to three specially trained magistrates or a District Judge; the most serious cases still go to the Crown Court.

155. Which TWO rules apply to Youth Courts?

1. Members of the public are not allowed in
2. The name or photographs of the accused young person cannot be published
3. Parents are barred from attending
4. The hearing is always held in a Crown Court

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Members of the public are not allowed in; The name or photographs of the accused young person cannot be published

Parents or carers are in fact expected to attend the hearing.

156. What is Scotland's equivalent of the Youth Court called?

1. The Children's Hearings System
2. Youth conferencing
3. The Justice of the Peace Court
4. The Sheriff Court

Show answer

Answer: A — The Children's Hearings System

Scotland uses the Children's Hearings System; Northern Ireland has a system of youth conferencing.

157. Which TWO kinds of case are dealt with in a County Court?

1. People trying to get back money that is owed to them
2. Divorce
3. Murder
4. Carrying a weapon

Show answer

Answer: A and B — People trying to get back money that is owed to them; Divorce

County Courts handle civil disputes including debt, personal injury, family matters, breaches of contract and divorce. In Scotland most go to the Sheriff Court.

158. In Scotland, where are more serious civil cases heard?

1. The Court of Session in Edinburgh
2. The High Court in London
3. The County Court
4. The Justice of the Peace Court

Show answer

Answer: A — The Court of Session in Edinburgh

More serious civil cases go to the High Court in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and to the Court of Session in Edinburgh in Scotland.

159. What is the small claims limit in England and Wales?

1. Less than £10,000
2. Less than £5,000
3. Less than £1,000
4. Less than £25,000

Show answer

Answer: A — Less than £10,000

The limit is under £10,000 in England and Wales, £5,000 using the simple procedure in Scotland, and £5,000 in Northern Ireland.

160. What is a small claims hearing like?

1. Informal, before a judge in an ordinary room, with both sides around a table
2. A formal trial before a judge and jury
3. Conducted entirely in writing
4. Heard in the Crown Court

Show answer

Answer: A — Informal, before a judge in an ordinary room, with both sides around a table

The small claims procedure helps people settle minor disputes without spending a lot of time and money on a lawyer; claims can also be issued online.

161. How are solicitors' charges usually based?

1. On how much time they spend on a case
2. On a fixed fee set by the government
3. On a share of any compensation won
4. On the number of court hearings only

Show answer

Answer: A — On how much time they spend on a case

Because charges are usually based on time, it is very important to find out at the start how much your case is likely to cost.

162. Which organisation can give you the names of local solicitors and tell you what areas of law they specialise in?

1. Citizens Advice
2. The Independent Police Complaints Commission
3. The Crown Prosecution Service
4. The Youth Court

Show answer

Answer: A — Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice can help, as can the Law Society in England and Wales, the Law Society of Scotland and the Law Society of Northern Ireland.

163. In which year did the UK sign the European Convention on Human Rights?

1. 1689
2. 1948
3. 1950
4. 1998

Show answer

Answer: C — 1950

The UK was one of the first countries to sign the Convention, in 1950.

164. Which Act incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law?

1. The Human Rights Act 1998
2. The Bill of Rights 1689
3. The Habeas Corpus Act
4. The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007

Show answer

Answer: A — The Human Rights Act 1998

The Human Rights Act 1998 brought the Convention into UK law, binding the government, public bodies and the courts.

165. Which TWO of the following are principles of the European Convention on Human Rights?

1. The right to a fair trial
2. The prohibition of slavery and forced labour
3. The right to free healthcare
4. The right to own a home

Show answer

Answer: A and B — The right to a fair trial; The prohibition of slavery and forced labour

The Convention's principles include a fair trial and the prohibition of slavery and forced labour.

166. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Arranged marriages, where both parties agree to the marriage, are acceptable in the UK.
2. A marriage is acceptable in the UK even if one party does not consent, provided both families agree.

Show answer

Answer: A — Arranged marriages, where both parties agree to the marriage, are acceptable in the UK.

An arranged marriage that both parties agree to is lawful, but forcing someone to marry is a criminal offence.

167. Forced Marriage Protection Orders were introduced for England, Wales and Northern Ireland under which Act?

1. The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007
2. The Human Rights Act 1998
3. The Habeas Corpus Act
4. The Bill of Rights 1689

Show answer

Answer: A — The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007

The orders were introduced in 2008 under the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007.

168. In which month and year were Forced Marriage Protection Orders introduced in Scotland?

1. November 2008
2. May 2007
3. November 2011
4. November 2012

Show answer

Answer: C — November 2011

Scotland introduced its own Forced Marriage Protection Orders in November 2011, three years after England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

169. Someone who breaches a Forced Marriage Protection Order can be jailed for how long?

1. Up to six months
2. Up to two years
3. Up to five years
4. Up to ten years

Show answer

Answer: B — Up to two years

Breaching such an order is contempt of court and can bring a prison sentence of up to two years.

170. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Taking a girl or woman abroad for female genital mutilation is a criminal offence.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Both practising FGM and taking a girl or woman abroad for it are criminal offences in the UK.

171. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. A man or a woman can be prosecuted for violence towards a partner, whether or not the couple are married.
2. Only a man can be prosecuted for violence towards a partner, and only if the couple are married.

Show answer

Answer: A — A man or a woman can be prosecuted for violence towards a partner, whether or not the couple are married.

Domestic violence is a serious crime regardless of the offender's sex or the couple's marital status.

172. In Northern Ireland, which body gives information to people facing discrimination?

1. The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland
2. The Equality and Human Rights Commission
3. The Scottish Human Rights Commission
4. The Law Society of Northern Ireland

Show answer

Answer: A — The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has its own Equality Commission, while England and Wales use the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

173. What is the number of the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline?

1. 0808 2000 247
2. 0800 092 7600
3. 0300 200 6565
4. 0131 348 5000

Show answer

Answer: A — 0808 2000 247

The National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline is available at any time on 0808 2000 247.

174. Where do British rights and essential freedoms have their roots?

1. Magna Carta, the Habeas Corpus Act and the Bill of Rights of 1689
2. The Human Rights Act 1998 alone
3. The Act of Union of 1707
4. The Treaty of Rome

Show answer

Answer: A — Magna Carta, the Habeas Corpus Act and the Bill of Rights of 1689

British rights grew out of Magna Carta, the Habeas Corpus Act and the Bill of Rights of 1689 and developed over centuries afterwards.

175. What is the name of the system under which an employer takes income tax out of an employee's pay and sends it to HMRC?

1. Pay As You Earn (PAYE)
2. Self-assessment
3. National Insurance Contributions
4. Statutory deduction relief

Show answer

Answer: A — Pay As You Earn (PAYE)

Most employees have the correct income tax deducted at source by their employer under Pay As You Earn.

176. Which government department collects taxes in the UK?

1. HM Revenue & Customs
2. HM Treasury
3. The Department for Work and Pensions
4. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency

Show answer

Answer: A — HM Revenue & Customs

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is the department responsible for collecting taxes.

177. How does a self-employed person pay their income tax?

1. Through self-assessment, by completing a tax return
2. Through PAYE, deducted by a client
3. By paying a fixed annual fee to the local council
4. Through National Insurance Contributions only

Show answer

Answer: A — Through self-assessment, by completing a tax return

Self-employed people pay their own tax through self-assessment, which involves completing a tax return.

178. When are young people in the UK sent a National Insurance number?

1. Just before their 16th birthday
2. Just before their 18th birthday
3. On their 21st birthday
4. When they first start paid work

Show answer

Answer: A — Just before their 16th birthday

Every young person in the UK receives a National Insurance number shortly before turning 16.

179. What does the money raised from National Insurance Contributions pay for?

1. State benefits and services such as the state pension and the NHS
2. The police and the armed forces
3. Road building and school buildings
4. Local council refuse collection

Show answer

Answer: A — State benefits and services such as the state pension and the NHS

National Insurance Contributions fund state benefits and services including the state retirement pension and the National Health Service.

180. What allows a non-UK national to start work in the UK before a National Insurance number is issued?

1. Being able to prove they have the right to work in the UK
2. Having lived in the UK for at least a year
3. A letter from a previous employer
4. Registration with their local council

Show answer

Answer: A — Being able to prove they have the right to work in the UK

You can start work before a number is issued if you can prove your right to work in the UK.

181. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Income tax is paid on wages, profits from self-employment, pensions and income from property and savings.
2. Income tax is paid only on wages from paid employment, not on pensions or savings income.

Show answer

Answer: A — Income tax is paid on wages, profits from self-employment, pensions and income from property and savings.

Income tax applies to a wide range of income, not only to wages.

182. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Employees have their National Insurance Contributions deducted from their pay by their employer.
2. Employees pay their own National Insurance Contributions directly, while employers pay for the self-employed.

Show answer

Answer: A — Employees have their National Insurance Contributions deducted from their pay by their employer.

Employers deduct contributions for employees, whereas self-employed people pay their own.

183. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Self-employed people are exempt from paying National Insurance Contributions.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

Almost everyone in paid work, including the self-employed, must pay National Insurance Contributions.

184. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? After applying for a National Insurance number you receive an email giving your application reference number.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

The confirmation email carries the application reference number and says whether further proof of identity is needed.

185. Which TWO of the following may be lost by someone who does not pay enough National Insurance Contributions?

1. Jobseeker's Allowance
2. A full state retirement pension
3. The right to work in the UK
4. The right to register with a doctor

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Jobseeker's Allowance; A full state retirement pension

Contributory benefits such as Jobseeker's Allowance and a full state pension depend on having paid enough contributions.

186. What is the minimum age for driving a car or a motor cycle in the UK?

1. 17
2. 16
3. 18
4. 21

Show answer

Answer: A — 17

You must be at least 17 to drive a car or motor cycle on UK roads.

187. What is the minimum age for riding a moped in the UK?

1. 16
2. 15
3. 17
4. 18

Show answer

Answer: A — 16

Mopeds may be ridden from the age of 16, a year earlier than cars and motor cycles.

188. Up to what age can drivers use their driving licence before it must be renewed every three years?

1. 70
2. 65
3. 75
4. 80

Show answer

Answer: A — 70

A licence runs until the driver is 70, after which it is valid for three years at a time.

189. In Northern Ireland, how long must a newly qualified driver display an 'R' plate after passing the test?

1. One year
2. Six months
3. Two years
4. Three years

Show answer

Answer: A — One year

The 'R' plate marks a restricted driver and must be displayed for one year after passing.

190. For how long may you drive in the UK on a licence issued by another country?

1. Up to 12 months
2. Up to three months
3. Up to six months
4. Up to three years

Show answer

Answer: A — Up to 12 months

A foreign licence can be used for up to 12 months, after which a full UK licence is needed.

191. When does a vehicle first have to be taken for an MOT test?

1. When it is over three years old
2. When it is over one year old
3. When it is over five years old
4. When it is over ten years old

Show answer

Answer: A — When it is over three years old

Vehicles more than three years old must have an annual MOT test.

192. What must you do if your vehicle is parked off the road and is not being used?

1. Tell the DVLA by making a Statutory Off Road Notification
2. Return the registration document to HMRC
3. Cancel your driving licence
4. Apply for a lifetime MOT exemption

Show answer

Answer: A — Tell the DVLA by making a Statutory Off Road Notification

A Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) tells the DVLA that a vehicle is off the road and unused.

193. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. It is a serious criminal offence to drive without valid motor insurance.
2. Motor insurance is optional once a vehicle is more than three years old.

Show answer

Answer: A — It is a serious criminal offence to drive without valid motor insurance.

Valid motor insurance is compulsory, and driving without it is a serious criminal offence.

194. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Vehicle tax cannot be passed on when a vehicle changes hands.
2. Vehicle tax automatically transfers to the new owner when a vehicle is sold.

Show answer

Answer: A — Vehicle tax cannot be passed on when a vehicle changes hands.

Annual vehicle tax is paid to the DVLA by the person who keeps the vehicle, and it cannot be passed on when the vehicle changes hands — the same is true of a SORN.

195. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? The UK driving test examines both your knowledge and your practical skills.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

The test covers knowledge as well as practical driving ability before a licence is granted.

196. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? A Statutory Off Road Notification can be transferred to the new owner if the vehicle is sold or given away.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

A SORN cannot be transferred when a vehicle is sold or given away — like annual vehicle tax, it does not pass to the new owner.

197. Which TWO of the following are required of a UK resident who keeps a car?

1. Paying an annual vehicle tax
2. Registering the vehicle at the DVLA
3. Holding an MOT certificate from the vehicle's first year
4. Making a SORN for a car in daily use

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Paying an annual vehicle tax; Registering the vehicle at the DVLA

A resident's vehicle must be registered with the DVLA and have annual vehicle tax paid on it.

198. In Northern Ireland, what must a newly qualified driver display, and for how long?

1. An 'R' plate — R for restricted driver — for one year after passing the test
2. An 'L' plate for six months
3. A 'P' plate for two years
4. Nothing extra is required

Show answer

Answer: A — An 'R' plate — R for restricted driver — for one year after passing the test

Northern Ireland has an extra rule for beginners that does not apply in the rest of the UK.

199. Which of the following is one of the fundamental principles on which British society is founded?

1. Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
2. Compulsory voting at every election
3. State ownership of major industries
4. Membership of a political party

Show answer

Answer: A — Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

The fundamental principles are democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life.

200. What is recommended when you move into a new house or apartment?

1. Introduce yourself to the people who live near you
2. Wait until your neighbours introduce themselves first
3. Register your arrival with the local police station
4. Ask the council to notify your neighbours

Show answer

Answer: A — Introduce yourself to the people who live near you

Introducing yourself to neighbours is the first step to becoming part of the community.

201. What is the best way to avoid most problems and conflicts with neighbours?

1. Respecting their privacy and limiting how much noise you make
2. Asking the council to mediate before any dispute arises
3. Avoiding all contact with the people next door
4. Agreeing to share the cost of repairs in advance

Show answer

Answer: A — Respecting their privacy and limiting how much noise you make

Most neighbour disputes never start if you respect your neighbours' privacy and keep your noise down; keeping your garden tidy and putting bins out only on collection day helps too.

202. When should refuse bags and bins be put out on the street or in communal areas?

1. Only when they are due to be collected
2. Every morning without exception
3. Whenever the bin becomes full
4. On the first day of each month

Show answer

Answer: A — Only when they are due to be collected

Leaving bins out only on collection day is part of being considerate to neighbours.

203. Which of the following is an example of the help that neighbours can offer?

1. Feeding your pets while you are away
2. Voting on your behalf in local elections
3. Signing your official identity documents
4. Paying part of your council tax

Show answer

Answer: A — Feeding your pets while you are away

Neighbours are a good source of practical help — they may be willing to feed your pets while you are away, or offer advice on local shops and services.

204. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Volunteering and helping your community are an important part of being a good citizen.
2. Volunteering is expected only of people who have lived in the UK for more than ten years.

Show answer

Answer: A — Volunteering and helping your community are an important part of being a good citizen.

Volunteering helps you integrate and fulfil duties such as behaving responsibly and helping others.

205. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Taking on the shared values and responsibilities makes it easier to become a full and active citizen.
2. The shared values and responsibilities apply only to people born in the UK.

Show answer

Answer: A — Taking on the shared values and responsibilities makes it easier to become a full and active citizen.

The shared values are for everyone, and living by them makes full and active citizenship easier.

206. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Respecting and preserving the environment is one of the shared values and responsibilities.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

Caring for the environment sits alongside obeying the law and treating others fairly in the list of shared values.

207. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? Because Britain is so diverse, there is no set of shared values that everyone can agree with.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

Despite its diversity, Britain has a set of shared values and responsibilities that everyone can agree with.

208. Which TWO of the following are among the shared values and responsibilities?

1. To treat others with fairness
2. To work to provide for yourself and your family
3. To join a political party
4. To serve in the armed forces

Show answer

Answer: A and B — To treat others with fairness; To work to provide for yourself and your family

Fairness towards others and providing for yourself and your family are both listed among the shared values and responsibilities.

209. What is the upper age limit for jury service in England and Wales?

1. 75
2. 70
3. 65
4. 80

Show answer

Answer: A — 75

Jurors are aged 18 to 70 generally, but the upper limit is 75 in England and Wales.

210. From which list are people randomly selected to serve on a jury?

1. The electoral register
2. The council tax register
3. HMRC's list of taxpayers
4. The national census returns

Show answer

Answer: A — The electoral register

Registering to vote also makes you liable to be picked at random for jury service.

211. What is the minimum age for becoming a school governor?

1. 18
2. 21
3. 25
4. 16

Show answer

Answer: A — 18

Governors must be 18 or over at the date of their election or appointment, and there is no upper age limit.

212. Which of the following is one of the three key roles of school governors?

1. Setting the strategic direction of the school
2. Marking pupils' examination papers
3. Setting the national curriculum
4. Inspecting neighbouring schools

Show answer

Answer: A — Setting the strategic direction of the school

Governors set strategic direction, ensure accountability, and monitor and evaluate school performance.

213. What is the name given to knocking on people's doors at election time to ask for their support?

1. Canvassing
2. Lobbying
3. Polling
4. Petitioning

Show answer

Answer: A — Canvassing

Canvassing is the door-to-door work party members do to persuade people to vote for their candidates.

214. Roughly how long does giving blood take?

1. About an hour
2. About ten minutes
3. About three hours
4. A full day

Show answer

Answer: A — About an hour

Donating blood takes only about an hour, and the blood helps people with many injuries and illnesses.

215. Which role can you volunteer for with the police?

1. A special constable
2. A crown prosecutor
3. A coroner
4. A police commissioner's deputy

Show answer

Answer: A — A special constable

Volunteering with the police can mean becoming a special constable or a lay, non-police, representative.

216. Which of these charities is named as working with children?

1. The NSPCC
2. Age UK
3. Crisis
4. The PDSA

Show answer

Answer: A — The NSPCC

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children works with children, while Age UK, Crisis and the PDSA serve other causes.

217. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Volunteering means working for good causes without payment.
2. Volunteers are paid a small hourly wage by the organisation they help.

Show answer

Answer: A — Volunteering means working for good causes without payment.

Volunteering is unpaid, though it can build work skills, improve a CV and offer a chance to practise English.

218. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Living people can donate a kidney.
2. Organs can only ever be donated after a person has died.

Show answer

Answer: A — Living people can donate a kidney.

A kidney may be donated by a living person, in addition to donation after death.

219. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? You must tell a canvasser how you intend to vote if they ask you.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: B — FALSE

How you intend to vote is your own business, and you need not tell a canvasser.

220. Which TWO of the following are benefits of recycling?

1. Making new products from recycled materials uses less energy
2. Less rubbish goes into landfill
3. Local authorities no longer need to collect bins
4. Household water bills are reduced

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Making new products from recycled materials uses less energy; Less rubbish goes into landfill

Recycling saves energy, means fewer raw materials have to be extracted from the earth, and cuts the amount of rubbish sent to landfill.

221. How are people selected for jury service?

1. Randomly, from those on the electoral register
2. By application to the court
3. By their local councillor
4. By the police

Show answer

Answer: A — Randomly, from those on the electoral register

People on the electoral register are randomly selected to serve on a jury.

222. What does 'PTA' stand for in a school context?

1. Parent-teacher association
2. Pupil training award
3. Public teaching authority
4. Parent trust agreement

Show answer

Answer: A — Parent-teacher association

Events at schools are sometimes organised by parent-teacher associations; volunteering to help does something good for the school and makes new friends locally.

223. What is the age requirement to become a school governor?

1. 18 or over, with no upper age limit
2. 21 or over, with no upper age limit
3. 18 to 70
4. No age requirement

Show answer

Answer: A — 18 or over, with no upper age limit

Governors must be aged 18 or over at the date of election or appointment, and there is no upper age limit.

224. Which TWO of these are key roles of a school governor?

1. Setting the strategic direction of the school
2. Monitoring and evaluating school performance
3. Teaching classes
4. Setting the national curriculum

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Setting the strategic direction of the school; Monitoring and evaluating school performance

The three key roles are setting strategic direction, ensuring accountability, and monitoring and evaluating school performance.

225. What is 'canvassing'?

1. Party members knocking on doors to ask for support at election time
2. Counting votes after the poll
3. Registering to vote
4. Standing as a candidate

Show answer

Answer: A — Party members knocking on doors to ask for support at election time

Members hand out leaflets and knock on doors asking for support — and you do not have to tell a canvasser how you intend to vote.

226. Is the statement below TRUE or FALSE? You do not have to tell a canvasser how you intend to vote.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Show answer

Answer: A — TRUE

You can decline to say how you intend to vote.

227. Besides British citizens, which TWO groups may be able to stand for public office in the UK?

1. Irish citizens
2. Eligible Commonwealth citizens
3. Any resident of the UK
4. Citizens of any EU country

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Irish citizens; Eligible Commonwealth citizens

British citizens can stand as a local councillor or MP, or the devolved equivalents, and Irish and eligible Commonwealth citizens may also be able to.

228. Which TWO volunteering roles can you take on with the police?

1. Becoming a special constable
2. Becoming a lay — non-police — representative
3. Becoming a Chief Constable
4. Becoming a Police and Crime Commissioner

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Becoming a special constable; Becoming a lay — non-police — representative

You can volunteer with the police as a special constable or a lay representative, and you can apply to become a magistrate.

229. Roughly how long does giving blood take?

1. About an hour
2. About five minutes
3. About half a day
4. About three hours

Show answer

Answer: A — About an hour

Donated blood helps people with a wide range of injuries and illnesses, and giving blood takes only about an hour.

230. Which organ can a living person donate?

1. A kidney
2. A heart
3. A lung and a kidney together
4. None — donation is only after death

Show answer

Answer: A — A kidney

Registering as an organ donor makes it easier for your family to decide when you die, and living people can also donate a kidney.

231. What does volunteering mean?

1. Working for good causes without payment
2. Working part-time for a charity for a wage
3. Serving on a jury
4. Paying money to a charity

Show answer

Answer: A — Working for good causes without payment

Volunteering is unpaid work for good causes; it can also help you practise English and develop work skills for your CV.

232. Which TWO charities are named as working with homeless people?

1. Crisis
2. Shelter
3. Age UK
4. the NSPCC

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Crisis; Shelter

Age UK works with older people and the NSPCC with children; Crisis and Shelter work with the homeless.

233. Which charity is named as working with animals?

1. The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA)
2. Friends of the Earth
3. Cancer Research UK
4. The British Red Cross

Show answer

Answer: A — The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA)

The PDSA is named as a charity working with animals; Friends of the Earth and the National Trust are environmental charities.

234. What does 'NSPCC' stand for?

1. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children
2. The National Service for the Protection of Children and Carers
3. The National Support Programme for Community Care
4. The National Society for Public Care and Charity

Show answer

Answer: A — The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children

The NSPCC is named as a charity working with children.

235. Which TWO benefits come from using recycled materials to make new products?

1. Less energy is used
2. Fewer raw materials need to be extracted from the earth
3. More landfill space is created
4. Products become cheaper to import

Show answer

Answer: A and B — Less energy is used; Fewer raw materials need to be extracted from the earth

Recycling also means less rubbish is created, so the amount going into landfill is reduced.

236. Which TWO reasons are given for shopping locally?

1. It helps businesses and farmers in your area and in Britain
2. It reduces your carbon footprint
3. It lowers your council tax
4. It shortens shop opening hours

Show answer

Answer: A and B — It helps businesses and farmers in your area and in Britain; It reduces your carbon footprint

The things you buy have not had to travel as far, so shopping locally reduces your carbon footprint.

237. Why are walking and using public transport described as good ways to protect the environment?

1. They create less pollution than using a car
2. They are always faster than driving
3. They are free
4. They reduce the need for recycling

Show answer

Answer: A — They create less pollution than using a car

Walking or using public transport where you can creates less pollution than using a car.

238. The National Citizen Service programme gives 16- and 17-year-olds the opportunity to do what?

1. Enjoy outdoor activities, develop their skills and take part in a community project
2. Vote in local elections
3. Serve on a jury
4. Stand for public office

Show answer

Answer: A — Enjoy outdoor activities, develop their skills and take part in a community project

The National Citizen Service gives 16- and 17-year-olds the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities, develop their skills and take part in a community project.

239. Which of the following statements is correct?

1. In Scotland, school governors are known as members of school boards.
2. Only teachers may become school governors.

Show answer

Answer: A — In Scotland, school governors are known as members of school boards.

School governors — known in Scotland as members of school boards — are people from the local community who want to make a positive contribution to children's education.