The Royal Prerogative (a set of privileges held by the monarch) includes the powers to declare war, make treaties, take possession of or give up territory, issue orders to armed forces, do anything necessary to defend the realm, in an emergency to confiscate or destroy property and intern aliens, make appointments and to control and manage the civil service. Although the powers listed are still exercised in the name of the monarch, in practice, they have been passed to the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Parliamentary authority is not required for the exercise of these prerogative powers, although Parliament may restrict or abolish the powers by a Bill. Some criticisms of this source of the constitution include the fact that the powers provide the executive with a means of by-passing the legislature. Therefore, some believe that the government could be described as undemocratic.
Parliamentary authority is not required for the exercise of these prerogative powers, although Parliament may restrict or abolish the powers by a Bill. Some criticisms of this source of the constitution include the fact that the powers provide the executive with a means of by-passing the legislature. Therefore, some believe that the government could be described as undemocratic.