Explain the functions of the legislature in a modern state.

Explanation

Functions of the Legislature in modern state are:

(i) Law-Making: Law making is the major function of the legislature in a modern state.

(ii) Approval of appointments: Appointments made by the executive must have the approval of the legislature, e.g. ministers, ambassadors, etc.

(iii) Control of the executive: It has the power to impeach or pass a vote of no confidence on the executive especially when the executive is acting in excesses or unconstitutionally.

(iv) Amendment of the Constitution: In most modern states, it is the legislature that amends the constitution.

(v) Judicial functions: The legislature at times performs judicial functions. In Britain, the House of Lords is also the highest Court of Appeal. Legislature also has the power of investigation.

(vi) Checks:The activities of most government parastatals and agencies are checked by the legislature.

(vii) Policies of the executive: Policies proposed by the executive are approved by the legislature before their implementation.

(viii) Control of public expenditure: It passes the needed appropriation bills, giving it the mandate to control the finances of the state.

(ix) Ratification of treaties: It ratifies all treaties made by the executive and also declares wars and state of emergency, etc.

(x) Ventilation of grievances: Legislature is a better forum for the ventilation of grievances.