British Citizenship Test

What was the original purpose of the Parliament?

1. The King's council of advisers

2. A democratic assembly

3. To settle disputes

4. A judge's court

The correct answer is: The King's council of advisers

The original purpose of Parliament was to serve as the King’s council of advisers. This concept emerged in the medieval period when monarchs would summon a group of nobles and clergy to gain counsel on various matters, especially those relating to governance, taxation, and law. This council would advise the King, and while it gradually evolved into a more formal legislative body, the primary function initially revolved around providing guidance and support to the sovereign. Over time, the role of Parliament developed further, leading to the establishment of a system where it held legislative powers and was representative of broader aspects of society, but its foundational purpose was indeed that of an advisory council to the monarch. Other options mention different functions, such as being a democratic assembly or a court, which represent later developments or distinct roles that Parliament came to fulfill much later in history.