#592 | A Beginner’s Guide To British Politics
Thu Jan 29 2026
British politics can feel confusing, with a king, a Prime Minister, and noisy debates in an old building.
This episode explains how the system works, from Parliament and voting to why two parties have ruled for so long.
Magna Carta and early Parliament shaped British politics.
Westminster: Parliament's home with Commons and Lords.
Parliament: Commons of elected MPs, Lords of appointed members.
Monarch's role: ceremonial, appoints PM, opens Parliament.
Voting system: constituencies and First Past the Post.
Two-party dominance challenged by rising Reform party.
Forming governments, general elections, choosing the Prime Minister.
MPs' duties, constituency work, and Prime Minister’s Questions.
Leadership contests and votes of no confidence.
Devolution: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland; West Lothian Question.
Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/guide-british-politics
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British politics can feel confusing, with a king, a Prime Minister, and noisy debates in an old building. This episode explains how the system works, from Parliament and voting to why two parties have ruled for so long. Magna Carta and early Parliament shaped British politics. Westminster: Parliament's home with Commons and Lords. Parliament: Commons of elected MPs, Lords of appointed members. Monarch's role: ceremonial, appoints PM, opens Parliament. Voting system: constituencies and First Past the Post. Two-party dominance challenged by rising Reform party. Forming governments, general elections, choosing the Prime Minister. MPs' duties, constituency work, and Prime Minister’s Questions. Leadership contests and votes of no confidence. Devolution: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland; West Lothian Question. Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/guide-british-politics --- You might like: 🔓 Unlock bonus episodes, interactive transcripts, subtitles & vocabulary lists ✨ 5 Powerful Tips for Learning English with Podcasts (Faster & Effectively!) [YouTube] 📹 A look inside Leonardo English membership 📧 Join our FREE weekly newsletter--- Keywords: Learn English, vocabulary, lessons, idioms, aprende inglés, idiomas, aprender inglês, apprendre l'anglais, imparare l’inglese, ingilizce öğren,英語を習う, تعلم الإنجليزية