Final answer:
Ministers are held accountable in parliamentary debates through a combination of party loyalty, questioning in formal procedures like hearings and parliamentary questions, and oversight by opposition parties.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of parliamentary debates, the accountability of ministers is enforced in several significant ways. Cabinets in parliamentary regimes maintain a close relationship with their prime minister, and members do not enjoy a high level of independence due to an understanding that their positions are linked to both the prime minister and the party. Therefore, cabinet ministers are held accountable as their actions reflect upon their party and prime minister.
Additionally, mechanisms such as parliamentary questions and hearings are used to ensure ministerial accountability. During these, legislators have the opportunity to question ministers, including the prime minister, about policy and government administration matters. These questions have to be formally answered either verbally during sessions or in writing by a specific date.
Political parties also play a role in maintaining ministerial accountability. Defying party discipline is seen as a political risk, thereby ensuring that members adhere to party directives. The minority party in parliament often performs oversight duties and can challenge and question the majority party’s government, helping to keep the power of the majority party in check.
Learn more about Parliamentary Debates