ABSTRACT
One of the hallmarks of the Commonwealth Constitution (as well as those of the States and Territories) is that they embody the system of parliamentary government, also sometimes referred to as ‘responsible government’ or ‘the Westminster system’. The term ‘responsible government’ highlights the fact that the executive is answerable to the legislature, and relies on the support of the legislature for its continuation in office. The term ‘Westminster system’ acknowledges the English origins of the system, and it is, indeed, a notable feature of comparative constitutional law that most countries that were once British colonies continue to base their Constitutions on this system.
