Government is the main agency of the state. It formulates, expresses and realises the will of the state, and exercises legislative, executive and judicial powers based on the constitution and the laws. It has three organs – Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. Governments are classified into unitary, federal, parliamentary and presidential forms.
1. Meaning of Government
- 'Government' refers to the executive functions of the state. It denotes a body having authority to make and enforce laws applicable to civil, corporate, religious, academic or other groups.
- The term is derived from Old French 'governor', from Latin 'gubernare' – to direct, rule, guide, govern.
- Government comprises members belonging to political and administrative wings, and is the instrument for delegation and execution of state policies for the welfare of the people.
The Oldest Form of Government
Monarchy is the oldest form of government in the United Kingdom. In a monarchy, a king or queen is Head of State. The British monarchy is a constitutional monarchy: the Sovereign is Head of State, but the ability to make and pass legislation resides with an elected Parliament.