Did the members of parliament believe that government only exist if the people allow it?

Yes, many members of parliament historically believed that government legitimacy derives from the consent of the governed. This principle is rooted in democratic theory, which posits that a government's authority is contingent upon the will of the people. If the populace withdraws its consent, the government risks losing its legitimacy and power. This belief underscores the importance of representation and accountability in a democratic society.