What is the main difference between the permanent executive and the political executive?

Correct answer: The political executive is elected and temporary

Correct answer: A. The political executive consists mainly of elected political leaders such as ministers. They make policy decisions and may leave office when the government changes or when they lose political support. The permanent executive consists of career government officials who are appointed through the administrative system. These officials normally continue in service even when elected governments change, and they help implement decisions and maintain administrative continuity. A is therefore the correct comparison, although the precise constitutional position is that ministers are appointed through the constitutional process and are politically responsible to the legislature. B is wrong because permanent officials are not defined by regularly contesting elections. C is wrong because the political executive belongs to the executive, not the judiciary. D is wrong because their roles and continuity are different. Memory cue: “Ministers may change; officials provide continuity.”