Explain the system of Proportional Representation with reference to the two schemes - Single Transferable Vote System and the List System.
Make a comparative study of the composition and powers of the US Senate and the Indian Rajya Sabha.
State six limitations imposed on the Sovereignty of the British Parliament.
Limitations:
i. Periodic elections - One of the limitations to the Sovereignty of Parliament is periodic elections. It does not matter how long the parliament is mandated by law to exist. At some point, the law allows that there should be elections to renew the mandate of the parliamentarians, some of whom may lose their seat.
ii. Power of the Prime Minister - Another limitation to the Sovereignty of Parliament is the power of the Prime Minister to dissolve parliament. This can happen before the end of the lawful term of parliament. When this happens, there has to be a new election and the face of the parliament may not be the same as the previous one.
iii. Public Opinion - Another limitation is the existence of public opinion. The public can bring pressure to bear on the parliament to pass or not to pass certain laws.
iv. Membership of International Organizations - The membership of countries to other international organizations can serve as a limitation to the powers of parliament. For example, before Britain voted to leave the European Union, any law passed by the British parliament that conflicts with a law passed by the European parliament becomes subservient to the European Union law.
v. Constitutional checks - In countries that have written constitutions, the constitution specifically puts a limit on the powers of the parliament.
vi. Procedural limitations - Parliament is a well regulated institution where procedures must be followed to the letter in the carrying out of their functions. The fact that these parliamentary procedures cannot be sidetracked without consequences, one can say it serves as a limitation to its supremacy.