The Political system of the United Kingdom .
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is a parliamentary monarchy. Formally the Queen is the head of the state but in reality the Prime minister has more power. Usually the Queen appoints the Prim minister that is the head of the state.
Parliament in Great Britain consists of two houses: the House of Lords and the House of Commons. The House of Lords is the upper House. The house of Commons is the lower House. Seats in the House of Lords are inherited. Members of the House of Commons are elected for a period of 5 years.
There are several political parties in the UK : the Conservative, Liberal and Social - Democratic parties.
The Houses of Parliament of Westminster Palace is the place where members of Parliament gather to make laws. Sessions usually begin at the end of October and last about 160 days. All the time the Parliament on session a flag can be seen over the building. Visitors may sit at the Strangers' Gallery and listen to the debates.
The speaker is the chairperson in the House of Commons and Lord Chancellor is the chairperson in the House of Lords.
The residence of the Queen Elizabeth II is Buckingham Palace . The residence of the Prime Minister is Downing Street , 10 in London .
Tony Blair is the Prime Minister today.
The popular name of the UK is Union Jack (according to the flag). Union - because it consists of several flags: English, Scottish, Welsh and Irish. Jack is an old word for sailor.