In my last blog post, we looked at what pressure groups are and the different groups that they can be split into. In this blog post, we will instead be considering how pressure groups influence the law-making process and the methods that they commonly use. Pressure groups are an important part of law, so it is vital that you learn about them for your studies. Try to be ready with specific examples of groups and situations to make your work shine.
We will start by having a quick review of what pressure groups are and how the different types work, as it helps to have this background in mind. We will then go on to consider how these different types can influence Parliament and the law.
What are Pressure Groups?
A pressure group is an organised group that seeks to influence the law-making process from outside Parliament. They do not put forward candidates to stand for election. They are sometimes also called interest groups, lobby groups or protest groups, which may depend on the focus of their groups and the style of their campaigning.
All pressure groups will try to influence those in power to make laws that fit with their organisation’s aims, without actually being part of Parliament. Pressure groups are usually rivals, as they want different things, but they may sometimes work together towards a common goal.
Pressure groups can be split into insider and outsider groups. Insider groups are those that are regularly consulted by the government over planned legislation and policy, giving them considerable influence over the law. Outsider pressure groups are those that are never or rarely consulted and instead try to influence the law through the media and the public.
In addition, there are both cause and interest groups. Cause groups are those that are focused around a particular cause, for example, Amnesty International. They want to change the law to do with one particular issue or issues and are motivated by these ideals. Membership of this type of pressure group is generally open to anyone who wants to join their cause.
On the other hand, interest groups are centred around their members all having similar interests, such as sharing an occupation. Groups try to further this interest by bringing issues that affect the members to Parliament’s attention and trying to influence the law in a way that will benefit them. Only members who meet certain requirements (such as being in a relevant occupation) can join. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is one example of an interest group.
Methods Used by Pressure Groups
There are a variety of different methods that pressure groups might use. These methods may vary according to the group in question and what type of method they have found works best for them. For example, insider and outsider groups will use very different methods, as Parliament consults with insider groups, whereas outsider groups have to first get their attention. Methods may also differ depending on the resources available to the pressure group, such as finances and members.
In addition, you may find that the methods used by the same pressure groups can vary according to the political party in power. Trade unions tend to be much more successful under Labour governments. On the other hand, business groups do well under Conservative governments.
Demonstrations
These may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of pressure groups trying to influence Parliament. This method also includes things like marches and rallies, which groups will encourage their members to attend to show off numbers and make an impression. Demonstrations are most commonly used by outsider pressure groups, as insider ones rarely have the need for this kind of tactic.
Petitions
Petitions are another good way for pressure groups to try to influence Parliament. This requires gathering signatures of citizens, saying that they would like some kind of action to be taken about the issue that the pressure group is concerned with. Petitioning helps to raise awareness among citizens, as well as showing Parliament that their pressure group has public support. Again, petitions are more commonly used by outsider groups, especially those focused around a particular cause.
Lobbying
Pressure groups may also lobby MPs, which means speaking to them directly. This is easier for insider groups, as they are more likely to have access to them, but outsider groups can also do this. Lobbying is a useful way for pressure groups to state their views, as it gives them the opportunity to respond to any queries or concerns.
Wrapping Up
I hope you now know a bit more about pressure groups and some of the methods that they use to influence law-making. In my next blog post, we will be considering some of the advantages of pressure groups, so come back in two weeks for that!
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I’d like to see more of these in my country
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