GS PrelimsPolityComparison of Indian Constitutional System with other Democracies1997
In which of the following countries will the no confidence motion to bring down the government passed by the legislature be valid only when the legislature is able to find simultaneously a majority to elect a successor government?
A
France
B
Germany
C
Italy
D
Portugal
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1. The question describes a specific type of no confidence motion known as a "constructive vote of no confidence".
2. In this system, a motion of no confidence against the incumbent government is valid only when the legislature simultaneously demonstrates that it can form a new government by electing a successor with majority support.
3. This mechanism is designed to prevent governmental instability that might arise if a government is removed without a viable alternative ready to take power.
4. This system is a key feature of the parliamentary system in Germany (as stipulated in Article 67 of the Basic Law).
5. While France, Italy, and Portugal have parliamentary or semi-presidential systems with mechanisms for votes of no confidence, they do not typically require the simultaneous election of a successor in the same manner as Germany's constructive vote.