WJEC Eduqas A Level Law Book 1 sample

Law reform 27 Occupy London set up an anti- capitalist protest camp outside St Paul’s Cathedral in London but, due to its illegal status, an injunction was issued and bailiffs were used to remove the camp and protesters There are a few things to note about interest groups: • They are concerned with the interests of their members. • Membership of these groups is limited to those in a particular occupation, career or economic position. • Members can be motivated by self-interest. • Interest groups tend to be influential in the development of the law and are often consulted by Parliament in the early stages of law development. 2. Cause groups These are sometimes called ‘promotional’, ‘attitude’ or ‘issue’ groups and are based on shared attitudes or values, rather than the common interests of their members. They seek to advance various causes ranging from charity activities, poverty reduction, education and the environment to human rights, international development and peace. Specific examples include the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF), Amnesty International, Shelter, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Electoral Reform Society. There are a few things to note about cause groups: • They seek to advance particular ideals or principles. • Membership is open to all. • Members are motivated by moral issues. The role of pressure groups as influential bodies Pressure groups use a variety of tactics, including: • letter writing • protest marches • lobbying MPs • organising petitions • gaining publicity and media attention • attracting celebrities to support their campaign. Some groups are more effective than others; size obviously helps, but other factors such as sheer persistence and headline grabbing can be very productive. Some groups use direct action, which in some cases can be illegal, such as violence or occupying land. The role of pressure groups as consultative bodies Pressure groups also have a role as a consultative body. When an idea for a new law is proposed, Parliament may wish to begin with a consultation before it is presented to Parliament. This consultation can take the form of a Green Paper and White Paper (see page 9). How effective are pressure groups? Pressure groups can be effective and influential. ✓ They enhance democracy and encourage ordinary people to engage in politics. ✓ They facilitate public discussion on key issues. ✓ Their specialist knowledge can inform governments. ✓ They make political parties more responsive to the public. ✓ They enhance freedom of expression under Article 10 and freedom of assembly and protest under Article 11 . ✓ They raise public awareness and educate the public on key issues. ✓ They often conduct their own specialist research, which can highlight important issues. However, there are a few reasons why pressure groups should be regarded with care. ✗ They only provide a one-sided view of an issue. ✗ If the group is small, their views can be distorted and not based on any substantial research.