The Prime Minister (PM) is the head of the UK government and the leader of the political party with the majority in the House of Commons.
Role of the Prime Minister
Powers and Responsibilities - Leads the government and sets policy direction - Chairs Cabinet meetings - Appoints and dismisses ministers - Represents the UK at international meetings - Answers questions in Parliament (PMQs) - Advises the King on appointments - Commands the armed forces (with Parliament)
Residence - **10 Downing Street** - Official London residence and office - **Chequers** - Country residence in Buckinghamshire
How Someone Becomes Prime Minister
- **Lead a political party** - Usually the Conservative or Labour Party
- **Win a general election** - The party wins the most seats
- **Be invited by the King** - To form a government
- There is no direct election for Prime Minister
Notable Prime Ministers
- **Sir Robert Walpole** (1721-1742) - First Prime Minister
- **Winston Churchill** (1940-1945, 1951-1955) - WWII leader
- **Margaret Thatcher** (1979-1990) - First female PM
- **Tony Blair** (1997-2007) - Labour's longest-serving PM
Accountability
The PM is accountable to: - **Parliament** - Must answer questions and can face votes of no confidence - **The public** - Through elections - **The Cabinet** - Ministers can resign or rebel