The Prime Minister and Cabinet

The Prime Minister (PM) is the head of government. Key facts: • The PM is the leader of the party with the most seats in the House of Commons • Formally appointed by the monarch • Lives and works at 10 Downing Street • Chooses the Cabinet (about 20 senior ministers) • Cabinet members run major government departments • The PM chairs Cabinet meetings • The Chancellor of the Exchequer manages the economy (lives at 11 Downing Street) • The Opposition leader heads the Shadow Cabinet