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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
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Politics
12 Dec 2025
481
3 pages
Pressure groups play a crucial role in UK politics, attempting to influence government decisions through various means. This... Show more
Some pressure groups wield significant influence over government decisions. Trade unions typically have more sway during Labour governments, while interest groups representing vital sectors (like the British Medical Association) are rarely ignored. Certain groups even participate directly in drafting legislation, such as the National Consumer Council.
Groups with expertise or substantial public backing often achieve tangible results. The Confederation of British Industry carries weight due to its economic expertise, while campaigns like Surfers Against Sewage's 'Message in a Bottle' successfully raised awareness about plastic pollution. Stonewall has maintained "insider" status due to its widespread support and effective messaging.
Did you know? Think tanks play a crucial role in policy development, with approximately 150 independent think tanks across the UK claiming expertise in specific areas like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (taxation) or Chatham House (international economics).
However, not all pressure groups succeed. Those with extreme views or limited public support (like Fathers4Justice) are easily ignored. Social movements often struggle due to loose structure, as seen with Camps for Climate Action's failure to prevent Heathrow expansion. Ultimately, the government isn't obligated to listen—even massive protests like the 2003 Stop the War Coalition march (1 million participants) can be disregarded.
The success of pressure groups can be understood through the RIPE framework Resources, Ideology, Popularity and Expertise. Well-funded organizations like the RSPCA have greater resources, while ideology explains why trade unions fare better under Labour governments. Public popularity (as seen with Marcus Rashford's campaigns) and specialized expertise (like the BMA) significantly increase effectiveness.
Think tanks aligned with the ruling party typically exert more influence. Conservative-leaning organizations include the Adam Smith Institute and Policy Exchange (which received £3.5m in donations), while left-leaning ones include the Institute for Public Policy Research (which received £5m). Some neutral think tanks like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (£8.8m) maintain credibility across political divides.
Remember this Even with public support, some campaigns fail to achieve their goals. The Junior Doctors' strikes in 2015-16 had significant public backing but didn't secure the changes they sought.
Campaign success often depends on strategic approaches and timing. The Snowdrop campaign successfully banned handguns following the 1996 Dunblane Primary School massacre due to overwhelming public support and emotional resonance. In contrast, campaigns like Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil have struggled to gain broad public backing despite high-profile actions.
Lobbying is big business in the UK, with approximately £2 billion spent annually. This access to government can sometimes lead to corruption, as revealed when undercover journalists exposed MPs attempting to sell access to ministers. Recent scandals include the Owen Patterson affair in 2021 and David Cameron's lobbying on behalf of Greensil.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, questions arose about PPE contracts being awarded to companies with ministerial connections. These instances highlight the thin line between legitimate representation and undue influence, raising questions about transparency in governance.
Important point Pressure groups often work against each other, creating a competitive marketplace of ideas. For example, ASH campaigns to restrict smoking while FOREST fights for smokers' rights.
Despite concerns about corruption, lobbyists can represent a form of pluralism by bringing diverse viewpoints into policy formation. This competitive environment sometimes leads to collaboration, as when the RSPCA, League Against Cruel Sports, and International Fund for Animal Welfare joined forces to support a hunting ban. Other times, groups remain in direct opposition, like Migration Watch UK advocating for reduced immigration while Liberty and Amnesty International push for more humanitarian approaches.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the significant role of media in shaping political opinions and participation. This summary covers key concepts such as media influence on elections, the evolution of social media, and the implications of opinion polls. Ideal for A-level Politics students seeking to understand the complexities of media's role in modern campaigns.
PoliticsExplore the dynamics of pressure groups and their influence on UK politics. This summary covers various types of pressure groups, including sectional, cause, and insider groups, along with their strategies such as lobbying, direct action, and civil disobedience. Understand the role of NGOs, grassroots movements, and the impact of public opinion on political decisions. Ideal for A-Level students studying UK political structures and civil society.
PoliticsExplore the dynamics of pressure groups in UK politics with this comprehensive overview. This resource covers insider and outsider groups, promotional and interest groups, key examples like the BMA and Greenpeace, and the methods and influences of pressure groups. Ideal for AQA Politics students, it also delves into the pluralism debate and the role of lobbying in shaping policy.
PoliticsExplore the various types and functions of pressure groups, including insider and outsider classifications, methods of influence like lobbying and public campaigning, and factors determining their success. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for students studying political science and public policy.
PoliticsComprehensive revision notes on the structure, ideologies, and historical development of the UK's major political parties: Labour, Conservative, and Liberal Democrats. Explore key concepts such as party systems, political ideologies, and the impact of minority parties on the political landscape. Ideal for students studying UK politics.
PoliticsExplore the critical factors influencing party success in politics, including leadership qualities, media influence, and party unity. This summary highlights the impact of social media and traditional media on voter perception and electoral outcomes, making it essential for A-level Politics students. Understand how these elements shape political parties and their strategies for success.
PoliticsQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Pressure groups play a crucial role in UK politics, attempting to influence government decisions through various means. This summary explores how different types of pressure groups operate, their successes and failures, and the complex relationship between lobbying and policy-making in... Show more
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Some pressure groups wield significant influence over government decisions. Trade unions typically have more sway during Labour governments, while interest groups representing vital sectors (like the British Medical Association) are rarely ignored. Certain groups even participate directly in drafting legislation, such as the National Consumer Council.
Groups with expertise or substantial public backing often achieve tangible results. The Confederation of British Industry carries weight due to its economic expertise, while campaigns like Surfers Against Sewage's 'Message in a Bottle' successfully raised awareness about plastic pollution. Stonewall has maintained "insider" status due to its widespread support and effective messaging.
Did you know? Think tanks play a crucial role in policy development, with approximately 150 independent think tanks across the UK claiming expertise in specific areas like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (taxation) or Chatham House (international economics).
However, not all pressure groups succeed. Those with extreme views or limited public support (like Fathers4Justice) are easily ignored. Social movements often struggle due to loose structure, as seen with Camps for Climate Action's failure to prevent Heathrow expansion. Ultimately, the government isn't obligated to listen—even massive protests like the 2003 Stop the War Coalition march (1 million participants) can be disregarded.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The success of pressure groups can be understood through the RIPE framework: Resources, Ideology, Popularity and Expertise. Well-funded organizations like the RSPCA have greater resources, while ideology explains why trade unions fare better under Labour governments. Public popularity (as seen with Marcus Rashford's campaigns) and specialized expertise (like the BMA) significantly increase effectiveness.
Think tanks aligned with the ruling party typically exert more influence. Conservative-leaning organizations include the Adam Smith Institute and Policy Exchange (which received £3.5m in donations), while left-leaning ones include the Institute for Public Policy Research (which received £5m). Some neutral think tanks like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (£8.8m) maintain credibility across political divides.
Remember this: Even with public support, some campaigns fail to achieve their goals. The Junior Doctors' strikes in 2015-16 had significant public backing but didn't secure the changes they sought.
Campaign success often depends on strategic approaches and timing. The Snowdrop campaign successfully banned handguns following the 1996 Dunblane Primary School massacre due to overwhelming public support and emotional resonance. In contrast, campaigns like Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil have struggled to gain broad public backing despite high-profile actions.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Lobbying is big business in the UK, with approximately £2 billion spent annually. This access to government can sometimes lead to corruption, as revealed when undercover journalists exposed MPs attempting to sell access to ministers. Recent scandals include the Owen Patterson affair in 2021 and David Cameron's lobbying on behalf of Greensil.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, questions arose about PPE contracts being awarded to companies with ministerial connections. These instances highlight the thin line between legitimate representation and undue influence, raising questions about transparency in governance.
Important point: Pressure groups often work against each other, creating a competitive marketplace of ideas. For example, ASH campaigns to restrict smoking while FOREST fights for smokers' rights.
Despite concerns about corruption, lobbyists can represent a form of pluralism by bringing diverse viewpoints into policy formation. This competitive environment sometimes leads to collaboration, as when the RSPCA, League Against Cruel Sports, and International Fund for Animal Welfare joined forces to support a hunting ban. Other times, groups remain in direct opposition, like Migration Watch UK advocating for reduced immigration while Liberty and Amnesty International push for more humanitarian approaches.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
11
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the significant role of media in shaping political opinions and participation. This summary covers key concepts such as media influence on elections, the evolution of social media, and the implications of opinion polls. Ideal for A-level Politics students seeking to understand the complexities of media's role in modern campaigns.
PoliticsExplore the dynamics of pressure groups and their influence on UK politics. This summary covers various types of pressure groups, including sectional, cause, and insider groups, along with their strategies such as lobbying, direct action, and civil disobedience. Understand the role of NGOs, grassroots movements, and the impact of public opinion on political decisions. Ideal for A-Level students studying UK political structures and civil society.
PoliticsExplore the dynamics of pressure groups in UK politics with this comprehensive overview. This resource covers insider and outsider groups, promotional and interest groups, key examples like the BMA and Greenpeace, and the methods and influences of pressure groups. Ideal for AQA Politics students, it also delves into the pluralism debate and the role of lobbying in shaping policy.
PoliticsExplore the various types and functions of pressure groups, including insider and outsider classifications, methods of influence like lobbying and public campaigning, and factors determining their success. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for students studying political science and public policy.
PoliticsComprehensive revision notes on the structure, ideologies, and historical development of the UK's major political parties: Labour, Conservative, and Liberal Democrats. Explore key concepts such as party systems, political ideologies, and the impact of minority parties on the political landscape. Ideal for students studying UK politics.
PoliticsExplore the critical factors influencing party success in politics, including leadership qualities, media influence, and party unity. This summary highlights the impact of social media and traditional media on voter perception and electoral outcomes, making it essential for A-level Politics students. Understand how these elements shape political parties and their strategies for success.
PoliticsQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Modern Studies
Sociology