Chief Whip

The Chief Whip is a political office in some legislatures assigned to an elected member whose task is to administer the whipping system that ensures that members of the party attend and vote as the party leadership desires.

Related Topics:
Legislature - Whipping system - Party

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In British politics, when his or her party is in government the Chief Whip in the House of Commons is usually appointed as Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury so the incumbent (representing the whips in general) has a seat and a voice in Cabinet. The Government Chief Whip has an official residence at 9 Downing Street, formerly 12 Downing Street.

Related Topics:
British - Politics - House of Commons - Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury - Cabinet - 9 Downing Street - 12 Downing Street

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As shown in BBC television series' Yes, Minister and House of Cards, the Chief Whip can wield a large amount of power over those in his or her party, up to and including Cabinet Ministers, being seen to speak at all times with the voice of the Prime Minister. Margaret Thatcher was famed for using her Chief Whip as a 'cabinet enforcer'.

Related Topics:
BBC - Television series - Yes, Minister - House of Cards - Cabinet Ministers - Prime Minister - Margaret Thatcher

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In the House of Commons as of 2004, Hilary Armstrong is the Government Chief Whip and David Maclean is the Opposition Chief Whip.

Related Topics:
House of Commons - As of 2004 - Hilary Armstrong - David Maclean

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There are also Chief Whips in:

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• Australia
• Canada
• Ireland