Cabinetresponsible

Cabinetresponsible is a term used to describe a governmental system where the executive branch, typically led by a prime minister or premier, is accountable to the legislature, usually a parliament. This principle of accountability means that the government, meaning the cabinet of ministers, must maintain the confidence of the majority in the legislature to remain in power. If the legislature passes a vote of no confidence, the government is usually expected to resign or call for a new election.

In a cabinetresponsible system, the head of government, such as a prime minister, is often a member of the legislature and is chosen based on their ability to command a majority. The cabinet ministers are also typically members of the legislature. This close relationship ensures that the executive is continuously subject to legislative scrutiny and control. The legislature has the power to question ministers, debate government policies, and ultimately, to dismiss the government.

This contrasts with presidential systems, where the executive branch, led by a president, is elected separately from the legislature and is not directly accountable to it. While a president may be impeached, the day-to-day functioning of the executive is generally independent of legislative confidence. Cabinetresponsible systems are common in parliamentary democracies around the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many European nations. The core idea is to foster a close working relationship between the government and the people's elected representatives.