Fundamental principles of British life
British society is founded on shared values. People who want to live in the UK permanently are expected to understand and respect them.
These values are reflected in the responsibilities, rights and privileges of being a British citizen or permanent resident. They come from the UK’s long history and its traditions, which are protected by law, customs and expectations.
There is no place in British society for extremism or intolerance.
Key facts
- The fundamental principles are: democracy; the rule of law; individual liberty; tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs; and participation in community life.
- Responsibilities include: respecting and obeying the law; respecting the rights of others, including their right to their own opinions; treating others with fairness; looking after yourself and your family; and looking after the area you live in and the environment.
- In return the UK offers: freedom of belief and religion; freedom of speech; freedom from unfair discrimination; a right to a fair trial; and a right to join in the election of a government.
Memory tips
- Principles: “D-R-I-T-P” — Democracy, Rule of law, Individual liberty, Tolerance, Participation.
- Think of it as a deal: you take on responsibilities (obey the law, be fair, look after your family and area) and receive freedoms (belief, speech, fair trial, voting).
Practice questions
1. Which of these is a fundamental principle of British life?
- The rule of law
- Compulsory voting
- A written constitution
- Mandatory military service
Show answer
The fundamental principles include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life.
2. Which TWO are fundamental principles of British life?
- Individual liberty
- Extremism
- Democracy
- Intolerance
Show answer
Democracy and individual liberty are fundamental principles. There is no place in British society for extremism or intolerance.
3. Which of these is a freedom the UK offers in return for people meeting their responsibilities?
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom from paying tax
- Freedom to ignore laws you disagree with
- Freedom to vote in more than one constituency
Show answer
The UK offers freedom of belief and religion, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, a right to a fair trial, and a right to join in the election of a government.
4. Which of these is NOT listed as a fundamental principle of British life?
- Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
- Participation in community life
- Loyalty to one political party
- Democracy
Show answer
Loyalty to one political party is not a principle. People are free to support any party or none.
5. A new resident wants to know what the UK expects of them. Which TWO are responsibilities of people living in the UK?
- Treat others with fairness
- Join a trade union
- Look after the area they live in and the environment
- Attend a place of worship
Show answer
Responsibilities include respecting and obeying the law, respecting the rights of others, treating others fairly, looking after yourself and your family, and looking after your area and the environment.
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