Today, the British government is a constitutional monarchy. This means the monarch is the ceremonial leader, but Parliament makes the laws. Unlike the United States Constitution, the British constitution is not a single document, but a group of laws and court decisions. The symbolic head is Queen Elizabeth II, who symbolizes Britain’s nationhood.

The British legislature, or Parliament, is located in London, England. It is made up of the House of Lords and the House of Commons. At one time, members of the House of Lords inherited their seats. Today, Parliament is moving toward a combination of elected and appointed members in both houses. These members are composed of high-ranking clergy, judges, and national leaders. The head of the majority party in the House of Commons is the prime minister, the true head of the British government.

Which statement best explains why the British system of government is considered a constitutional monarchy?
Responses

A. A king or queen is the head of state, but Parliament makes the laws.

B. Some members of Parliament are elected, while others are appointed.

C. The monarch has more power than the elected parliament.

D. The head of the majority party in Parliament is the prime minister.