The practice of using "please" and "thank you" in British English, even when asking a question or making a request, is a cultural norm deeply rooted in the concept of politeness and good manners. It is considered a standard form of courteous communication in many English-speaking societies, not just limited to British English.
The use of "please" is a way of making the request or question sound more polite and less demanding. It softens the tone of the sentence and shows respect and consideration for the person you are addressing. By using "please," the speaker is indicating that they are not taking the other person's assistance or compliance for granted and are making a humble request.
Similarly, saying "thank you" after the request or question is a way of expressing gratitude in advance, demonstrating that you appreciate the other person's time and effort, even before they've fulfilled your request. It shows respect and acknowledges that the other person's help or compliance is valuable and not to be taken lightly.
In many cultures, including British culture, politeness and social norms play a significant role in daily interactions. Using "please" and "thank you" is a way to maintain positive social relationships, demonstrate good manners, and foster a sense of respect and consideration for others.
It's important to note that not everyone in Britain or any English-speaking country may use "please" and "thank you" in this manner consistently, as communication styles can vary from person to person and across different contexts. However, it is generally considered good practice to use these polite expressions to enhance effective and respectful communication.