Recent Years

Question 1

How have pressure groups become more important in recent years?

Answer 1

+ Numbers have doubled since 1960

+ Increased access points both online and through devolution

+ Pressure groups have much bigger memberships (25-50% compared to 0.8%)

+ Greater willingness to use courts after HRA

Question 2

Argument that PGs are just as important now than ever?

Answer 2

Issues move up and down the political agenda and as such different pressure groups are more important at different times

Question 3

Arguments that pressure groups have become less important in recent years?

Answer 3

• Chequebook membership
• Hyperpluralism meaning it is harder for them to get their voices heard
• Decline in corporatism (consulting workers and business owners on policy)
• Failure of high profile campaigns like the Stop the War Coalition
• Clicktivism and Slacktivism