UPSC Prelims 2017 · GS Paper I

Question 46: Polity and Governance

The main advantage of the parliamentary form of government is that

athe executive and legislature work independently.

bit provides continuity of policy and is more efficient.

cthe executive remains responsible to the legislature.

dthe head of the government cannot be changed without election.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

The defining advantage of the parliamentary system is responsibility: the executive (Council of Ministers) holds office only while it enjoys the confidence of the legislature and answers to it for its actions, so it can be removed by a vote of no confidence. The other options are wrong. In parliamentary government the executive and legislature work together, not independently; continuity and efficiency are not guaranteed, since governments can fall; and the head of government can be changed without an election.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Wrong: independence of executive and legislature describes the presidential system.
(b) Wrong: continuity and efficiency are not assured, as governments can fall on a confidence vote.
(c) Right: the executive remains responsible to the legislature.
(d) Wrong: a head of government can change without an election if he loses the majority.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.