Cabinet often plays the role of party leaders. Must be sensitive to 'backbenchers' to remain in power, without them party will fall. D. Coalition government 1. Most of Western Europe. Proportional systems allow more parties to get seats in assembly.
Majority parties rare.
Coalition emerges after election. Largest party given chance to form a government. Must enlist the help of other parties to form a majority coalition that will govern effectively. Coalitions tend to be unstable. Length of terms may be listed in months, not years.