1.
Which of these statements is correct?
Correct Answer
A. When renting a property, a deposit is paid to the landlord at the beginning of the tenancy to cover the cost of any damage.
Explanation
The correct answer is "When renting a property, a deposit is paid to the landlord at the beginning of the tenancy to cover the cost of any damage." This statement accurately describes the purpose of a rental deposit, which is to provide financial protection to the landlord in case there is any damage to the property during the tenancy. It is not meant to cover the landlord's administrative costs, but rather to ensure that the tenant is responsible for any repairs or replacements that may be needed.
2.
St David is the patron saint of
Correct Answer
C. Wales
Explanation
St David's Day is celebrated on 1st March.
3.
You can receive health advice and treatment when you are pregnant and after you have had the baby from which TWO sources?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Your GP
C. Your health visitor
Explanation
During pregnancy and after giving birth, it is important to receive health advice and treatment from reliable sources. Your GP (general practitioner) is a primary healthcare provider who can offer guidance and medical care throughout your pregnancy journey and postpartum period. They have the knowledge and expertise to address any concerns or complications that may arise. Additionally, your health visitor is another valuable source of support. They are trained professionals who specialize in maternal and child health, providing advice and assistance on various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and child development. Together, your GP and health visitor can ensure your well-being and that of your baby during this critical time.
4.
True or false: "The UK football team is very important to British people."
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
There are no UK teams for football and rugby. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own teams.
5.
Which TWO of the following are members of the Cabinet?
Correct Answer(s)
A. The Chancellor of the Exchequer
D. The Home Secretary
Explanation
The Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Home Secretary are members of the Cabinet. The Chancellor of the Exchequer is responsible for economic and financial matters, while the Home Secretary is in charge of domestic affairs and security. Being part of the Cabinet means they hold important positions in the government and have a role in decision-making and policy formation. The Speaker of the House of Commons and the Leader of the Opposition, on the other hand, are not members of the Cabinet. The Speaker is an impartial figure who presides over parliamentary debates, while the Leader of the Opposition is the head of the largest opposing party in the government.
6.
Where can you find details of trade unions in the UK?
Correct Answer
C. Trade Unions Congress (TUC) website
Explanation
The Trade Unions Congress (TUC) website is the correct answer because it is a reliable source of information on trade unions in the UK. The TUC is the national trade union center in the UK, representing the interests of trade unions and their members. Their website provides details on various trade unions, their activities, campaigns, and resources for workers. It is a comprehensive and up-to-date platform for anyone seeking information about trade unions in the UK.
7.
In the 1950s, textile and engineering firms sent agents to which TWO countries to find workers?
Correct Answer(s)
B. India
D. Pakistan
Explanation
During the 1950s, textile and engineering firms sought to find workers in India and Pakistan. These countries were chosen as they had a large population and a skilled workforce, making them suitable for meeting the labor demands of these industries. Additionally, India and Pakistan were both part of the British Empire until 1947, so there were historical and cultural ties that made it easier for firms to establish connections and recruit workers from these countries.
8.
Which of these statements is correct?
Correct Answer
A. For cars and motorcycles the speed limit on single carriageways is 60mph
Explanation
The correct answer is that the speed limit for cars and motorcycles on single carriageways is 60mph. This means that vehicles traveling on a single carriageway road should not exceed a speed of 60 miles per hour.
9.
True or false: "Every household in the UK is required by law to complete a census form."
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In the UK, it is indeed a legal requirement for every household to complete a census form. The census is conducted every 10 years and is used to gather important information about the population, such as demographics, living conditions, and social trends. By making it mandatory for every household to participate, the government ensures that the data collected is comprehensive and accurate. Failing to complete the census form can result in penalties or legal consequences.
10.
The group of senior MPs appointed by the Leader of the Opposition to lead the criticism of government ministers is called
Correct Answer
C. The Shadow Cabinet
Explanation
The group of senior MPs appointed by the Leader of the Opposition to lead the criticism of government ministers is called the Shadow Cabinet. This term refers to the group of opposition politicians who hold positions mirroring those in the government's cabinet, but in an opposing party. They are responsible for scrutinizing and challenging the actions and policies of the government, offering alternative proposals, and representing the opposition's viewpoint.
11.
True or false: "There is no national minimum wage for those aged under 16."
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because in many countries, including the United States, there is no national minimum wage specifically for individuals under the age of 16. However, there may be certain state or local laws that dictate minimum wage requirements for underage workers. It is important to consult the specific laws and regulations of the relevant jurisdiction to determine the minimum wage for individuals under 16.
12.
True or false: "School-age boys smoke more than girls".
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
School-age girls smoke more than boys.
13.
When you obtain a mortgage to buy a house, who normally carries out checks on the property to ensure that it is sound?
Correct Answer
C. A surveyor
Explanation
A surveyor will usually make a report on behalf of the bank or building society that is providing you with the mortgage.
14.
True or false: "Women have had equal voting rights with men in the UK since 1928".
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In 1918, women aged over 30 were given the right to vote. In 1928, women won the right to vote at 21, the same age as men.
15.
Who opens Parliament each year?
Correct Answer
D. The Queen
Explanation
The Queen opens Parliament each year. As the head of state, it is her duty to formally open and outline the government's plans and policies for the upcoming year. This tradition dates back centuries and is an important ceremonial event in the United Kingdom. The Queen's Speech, delivered during the State Opening of Parliament, sets the agenda for the government's legislative program and reflects the monarch's role as a constitutional figurehead.
16.
Which TWO places can you contact about getting a National Insurance number?
Correct Answer(s)
C. Jobcentre Plus
D. Your local social security office
Explanation
You can contact Jobcentre Plus and your local social security office to inquire about getting a National Insurance number. These two places are responsible for handling such matters and can provide you with the necessary information and assistance. The Home Office and the Department for Work and Pensions may have other functions but are not specifically designated for National Insurance number inquiries.
17.
The minimum wage for 18-21-year-olds is
Correct Answer
D. £4.45 per hour
Explanation
The correct answer is £4.45 per hour. This is the minimum wage for 18-21-year-olds. It is important to pay attention to the age bracket specified in the question, as the minimum wage can vary depending on age.
18.
How many days a year must schools be open?
Correct Answer
C. 190
Explanation
Term dates are usually decided by the governing body or the local education authority.
19.
After Christianity, which are the TWO largest religious groups in the UK?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Muslim
C. Hindu
Explanation
After Christianity, the two largest religious groups in the UK are the Muslim and Hindu communities. This is based on the significant presence and growing populations of both Muslims and Hindus in the country. The Muslim community in the UK is diverse and includes individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, while the Hindu community consists of individuals who follow the Hindu religion and come from different parts of the world. Both groups contribute to the religious and cultural diversity of the UK.
20.
Which TWO statements about the Commonwealth are true?
Correct Answer(s)
B. There are 54 members.
D. The Commonwealth has no power over its members.
Explanation
The Queen is the head of the Commonwealth and membership is voluntary.
* Note, according to the '07 test there are only 53 members, however since Nov 09 there are 54; I therefore edited the answer to be accurate.
21.
Maternity leave is:
Correct Answer
C. 26 weeks
Explanation
Maternity leave refers to the period of time that a woman takes off from work for the birth and care of her newborn child. The correct answer, 26 weeks, suggests that the maternity leave duration is 26 weeks. This length of time allows new mothers to have an extended period to recover from childbirth, bond with their baby, and adjust to their new role as a parent. It also provides ample time for breastfeeding and establishing a routine. This longer duration of maternity leave is beneficial for the well-being of both the mother and the child.
22.
The aims of the United Nations are
Correct Answer
B. To prevent war and promote peace and security
Explanation
The UK is one of the five permanent members of the UN.
23.
Which TWO countries are members of the Commonwealth?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Malaysia
C. Pakistan
Explanation
Malaysia and Pakistan are members of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth is an intergovernmental organization of countries that were mostly former territories of the British Empire. Its members share historical ties, common values, and cooperate on various political, economic, and social issues. Both Malaysia and Pakistan were part of the British Empire and gained independence, but chose to remain part of the Commonwealth.
24.
How much has the population of the UK grown since 1971?
Correct Answer
D. 7.7%
Explanation
The population of the UK has grown by 7.7% since 1971. This means that the population has increased by approximately 7.7% compared to its size in 1971.