The main party not in power in Parliament is known as what?

• A. Government
• B. Opposition (in Parliament)
• C. Coalition
• D. Backbenchers

Answer: (B)

In Parliament, the party that is not governing is known as the Opposition. It is the largest party that doesn’t hold the government’s formal leadership and seats of power, and its main job is to scrutinise the government, ask tough questions, and present alternative policies. The Opposition often develops a shadow cabinet to mirror the government’s ministries, so it’s clear who would lead if the government changes.

The other terms aren’t the same: the Government is the party or coalition currently in power; a Coalition is a formal alliance between two or more parties that forms government; backbenchers are MPs who don’t hold ministerial or shadow ministerial roles.