British Citizenship Test

Is the statement that the House of Commons can always overrule the House of Lords true or false?

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the legislation

4. Only during elections

The correct answer is: True

The statement that the House of Commons can always overrule the House of Lords is true. This reflects the fundamental principle of the UK political system, which positions the House of Commons as the primary legislative body. The House of Commons holds greater power, particularly because its members are directly elected by the public, whereas members of the House of Lords are not. When there is a disagreement between the two Houses regarding legislation, the House of Commons has the authority to insist on its version of a bill. Even if the House of Lords rejects or delays legislation, the Commons can eventually pass the bill without the Lords’ approval. This is enshrined in the Parliament Acts of 1911 and 1949, which allow the Commons to pass certain types of legislation even if the Lords have rejected it twice. The other options suggest conditions or limitations that do not fully capture the authority of the Commons over the Lords in legislative matters, making "true" the most accurate answer.