British politics: who do MPs represent?

About this course

This course examines the constitutional expectation that MPs consult constituents while retaining freedom to form their own views on local and national issues. It considers how party allegiance and loyalty to political policies can conflict with constituents’ opinions or an MP’s beliefs. The course also explores the influence of interest groups, including political donations, hospitality and gifts, alongside the rules governing lobbying and declarations in the Register of MPs’ Interests. Teaching is delivered through an interactive one-off lecture, with no work outside class.

What you'll learn

• Assess how far MPs represent the interests of their constituents
• Evaluate the importance of party loyalty and political allegiance
• Assess how donations, hospitality and gifts may influence MPs

Is this course right for you?

The course is introductory and welcomes learners who can follow discussions in English. Participation involves listening respectfully to classmates whose political views may differ, making it suited to learners comfortable with a discussion-based lecture format.

• A good standard of English is needed to follow the discussions.
• Respectful listening is an essential expectation, including when views differ.

Before you go

• Learners may bring a pen and paper if they wish to take notes.