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      How does the UK Government manage risk?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain what risks the UK Government faces and how it prepares for them.

      Key learning points

      1. The UK Government uses risk management to prevent economic instability from cyber attacks and financial downturns.
      2. Public health planning, like Exercise Cygnus and cybersecurity laws, strengthen national risk management.
      3. Financial oversight, including FCA investigations, ensures businesses follow regulations and protects the economy.
      4. Emergency frameworks and international cooperation with organisations like the G20 help the UK manage risks.
      5. These strategies strengthen economic resilience, protect jobs and ensure long-term stability.

      Keywords

      • Risk - the chance of something going wrong, leading to loss, harm or an unexpected negative outcome

      • Risk management - the process of identifying, assessing and controlling threats to an organisation's capital and earnings

      Common misconception

      Only financial risks affect the economy.

      The Government must work hard to manage a large range of risks in every area of life, such as health and education, so that the economy remains stable and balanced.

      Teacher tip

      This lesson mentions terrorism and the threat of it causing harm and suffering. You might choose not to use this slide in your lesson depending on the circumstances and timing.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Depiction or discussion of serious crime

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion?

      Tax avoidance is illegal, while tax evasion is legal.
      Correct answer: Tax evasion is illegal, while tax avoidance is legal.
      Both are illegal.
      Both are legal.

      Q2.
      Fill in the blank: Tax-free economies often rely on consumption taxes or privatised services, increasing financial barriers to access.

      Correct Answer: high

      Q3.
      How does taxation uphold social equity?

      by ensuring everyone pays the same amount
      by providing equal funds to the rich and poor
      Correct answer: by ensuring proportional taxes based on income
      by not taxing the wealthy at all

      Q4.
      Fill in the blank: Reducing tax contributions, even legally, reduces revenue.

      Correct Answer: government

      Q5.
      What can some people use to find ways reduce their tax bill?

      laws
      leverage
      Correct answer: loopholes

      Q6.
      Match the arguments for and against paying tax to its correct stance.

      Correct Answer:for,it helps to balance the Budget
      Correct Answer:against,fewer educational opportunities
      Correct Answer:for,with rights come responsibilities
      Correct Answer:against,it could make infrastructure weaker

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Fill in the blank: The UK Government uses risk management to prevent instability from cyber attacks and financial downturns.

      Correct Answer: economic

      Q2.
      Match the words to the correct definition.

      Correct Answer:risk,chance of something going wrong; an unexpected negative outcome
      Correct Answer:risk management,process of handling threats to an organisation's capital and earnings
      Correct Answer:financial oversight,ensures businesses follow regulations and protects the economy

      Q3.
      Which is not an important reason for the Government to manage risks in areas like health and education?

      to save money for the Government
      to ensure stability and balance in the economy
      Correct answer: to allow businesses to operate without restrictions

      Q4.
      Which is not a risk that the Government faces?

      cybersecurity threats
      health emergencies
      natural disasters
      Correct answer: economic growth

      Q5.
      What is one benefit of having emergency frameworks in place?

      they provide discounts on shopping
      Correct answer: they help manage national/international risks
      they eliminate the need for public services
      they increase the number of holidays

      Q6.
      Match the government strategy with its aim.

      Correct Answer:Financial Conduct Authority,investigate private investment companies
      Correct Answer:Office for Budget Responsibility,check how money is being spent
      Correct Answer:National Economic Crime Centre,improve response to economic crime

      To help you plan your 10 citizenship lesson on: How does the UK Government manage risk?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...