(3) Main distinctions between parties and pressure groups

(3) Main distinctions between parties and pressure groups

1. Parties:

   • Seek governmental power
   • Adopt policies across full range of government responsibility.
   • Have to be accountable for their policies
   • Must behave responsibly!?

2. Pressure groups:

   • Do not seek power
   • Usually have a wide range of issues.
   • Do not have to be accountable.
   • May act illegally or promote civil disobedience.

3. Blurred lines between pressure groups and political parties

   • Both may put candidates up for election. Some pressure groups may convert themselves into parties.
   • Some pressure groups e.g. trade unions or business groups may develop a wide range of policies.
   • Both parties and pressure groups should be accountable to their members.