Politics in the United Kingdom is characterized by a parliamentary system, where the Prime Minister leads the government and is supported by the Parliament. The Parliament consists of two houses: the House of Commons, made up of elected representatives, and the House of Lords, which includes appointed members and bishops. The UK operates under a constitutional monarchy, meaning that the Monarch has a ceremonial role while political power is held by elected officials. Major political parties include the Conservative Party, the Labour Party, and the Liberal Democrats, each representing different ideologies and policies.