Government Structure Quiz 2024-2025

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Questions and Answers

What is the term length for the President of Singapore?

6 years (correct)

5 years

7 years

4 years

Who elects the President of Singapore?

The Cabinet

The Parliament

The citizens (correct)

An electoral college

Which communities are eligible for a reserved presidential election?

Chinese, Malay, or Indian or other minorities (correct)

All ethnic communities

Only the Malay community

Any community at random

What is one of the primary responsibilities of the President of Singapore?

Safeguarding the reserves Signup and view all the answers

In which situation can the President of Singapore act at his discretion?

To refuse or revoke certain important appointments Signup and view all the answers

What does the Constitution of Singapore consider as the supreme law?

The Constitution itself Signup and view all the answers

How does the President typically perform his or her powers and functions?

According to the advice of the Cabinet Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a presidential candidate besides the service requirement?

Meeting various qualifications Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the powers of a Town Council?

To levy conservancy and service charges Signup and view all the answers

Who leads a Community Development Council (CDC)?

The Mayor Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Community Development Councils?

To foster community bonding Signup and view all the answers

What are subsidiary legislations?

Laws made by empowered persons or bodies as per the parent Act Signup and view all the answers

If subsidiary legislation does not comply with the parent Act, what is its status?

It is null and void Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Leader of the Opposition fulfill in addition to parliamentary duties?

Attending official state functions Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Members of Parliament is correct?

They may run their own businesses. Signup and view all the answers

What proportion of votes is required in a national referendum to amend constitutional provisions regarding the sovereignty of Singapore?

Two-thirds Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the office of the Speaker of Parliament is vacant?

Parliament can only elect a new Speaker. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Government Parliamentary Committees (GPCs)?

To monitor policies of specific ministries. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of an equally divided vote among Members of Parliament, what happens to the motion?

The motion is lost Signup and view all the answers

What is one feature of the Government Parliamentary Committees (GPCs) that distinguishes them in Singapore?

They are an initiative of the ruling political party. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the Presidential Council for Minority Rights (PCMR)?

To scrutinise Bills for disadvantages to any racial and religious communities Signup and view all the answers

Who presides over each sitting of Parliament?

The Speaker of Parliament Signup and view all the answers

Which body holds the judicial power of Singapore?

The Supreme Court and subordinate courts Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'judicial power' encompass?

Interpreting and applying the law, adjudicating disputes, and checking executive acts Signup and view all the answers

What do Standing Orders regulate in Parliament?

The conduct of proceedings and despatch of business Signup and view all the answers

What do Resource Panels associated with GPCs primarily consist of?

Experts and interested lay persons Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is a two-thirds majority required to override the PCMR's report?

When PCMR reports adversely on the Bill Signup and view all the answers

What does the judicial function primarily rely on according to the High Court's observations?

The existence of a controversy between parties Signup and view all the answers

What is the etymological origin of the word 'court'?

Old French 'cort' Signup and view all the answers

What is described as a critical aspect of the relationship between ministers and senior civil servants?

Partnership and mutual respect Signup and view all the answers

Which type of public service relationship involves the public service acting as an extension of elected politicians?

Dependent relationship Signup and view all the answers

What can occur when elected politicians have inadequate expertise in specific matters?

The public service influences elected politicians Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if poor political leadership exists alongside a capable civil service?

Progress will be hindered by poor decisions Signup and view all the answers

In what type of relationship does the public service operate independently of elected politicians?

Independent relationship Signup and view all the answers

What may occur when the public service fails to assist or implement decisions of political leaders?

Deterioration of governance Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of having both good politicians and a poorly functioning civil service?

Ineffective policy delivery Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects a misconception about the relationship dynamics between public service and elected officials?

The civil service should operate fully autonomously from politicians. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The President of Singapore

Head of State elected by citizens for a 6-year term.
Elections are community-reserved based on diversity: Chinese, Malay, or Indian/other minorities.
Candidates must meet public or private sector service requirements.
Responsibilities include safeguarding Singapore’s reserves and the integrity of public services.
Generally acts on Cabinet advice, mirroring the UK monarchy's ceremonial role.
Holds discretionary powers in specific appointments for key government positions.

Parliament Structure

Members of Parliament (MPs) can engage in commercial enterprises but cannot hold full-time public service positions.
The Speaker of Parliament is elected by Parliament and presides over sessions.
Government Parliamentary Committees (GPCs) monitor ministerial policies, consisting only of ruling party MPs.
GPCs aim to enhance MP involvement, provide diverse perspectives, and feedback on public interest matters.

Legislative Process

Two-thirds majority required for constitutional amendments regarding sovereignty.
Other amendments need a simple majority vote.
The Presidential Council for Minority Rights (PCMR) oversees legislation to prevent racial or religious discrimination.
A bill requires PCMR’s approval before proceeding to presidential assent to become law.

Judiciary

Comprises the Supreme Court and subordinate courts, responsible for adjudicating legal disputes and administering justice.
Judicial functions include interpreting laws and checking legislative and executive actions for legality.
Courts operate based on existing controversies between state and individuals or among individuals.

Public Service Relationships

Various types of relationships exist between public servants and elected politicians, influencing policy implementation.
Partnership and mutual respect are emphasized for effective governance.
Types include:
- Public Service implementing politicians’ policies.
- Public Service independence from politicians.
- Public Service influencing politicians due to expertise gaps.
- Instances of Public Service failing to execute policies.

Community Development Councils (CDCs)

Established under the People's Association, with one CDC per district in Singapore.
CDCs promote community bonding, manage projects, and administer government aid for residents.

Subsidiary Legislation

Supplemental laws made by designated individuals or bodies empowered by the Legislature.
Must comply with parent Acts of Parliament, as failure leads to being considered ultra vires (beyond power).

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Description

Test your knowledge on the structure and nature of the Singaporean government. This quiz covers key concepts such as constitutional amendments, the role of the electorate, and parliamentary decision-making. Perfect for students preparing for assessments in political science.