Birth of the British Parliamentary Cabinet System

Abstract

The British parliamentary cabinet system took a long time to achieve its final shape. Its beginnings date back to the 17th century and the reign of Charles II, but the cabinet was finally developed and subsequently separated from the sovereign during the reign of George I and George II. However, even then, it was not yet subordinated to Parliament. The beginning of the 19th century saw a speedy evolution of the position of the House of Commons which consequently, after the 1832 reform, dominated the Cabinet and had a decisive power regarding its political existence. And yet, over the next years, the Cabinet became to play a dominant role, which was the result of its being elected by people rather than by the King's decision or owing to preferences amongst the lords. And so. eventually, the 18th century sovereignty of the King was replaced by the sovereignty of the people.