4.4 The location of sovereignty Flashcards
- Distinctions between legal and political sovereignty - The extent to which sovereignty has moved between branches of government
1
Q
Define Sovereignty
A
Absolute and unlimited power (supreme control over internal affairs)
2
Q
Define Legal Sovereignty
A
Legal authority which is unchallengeable. UK Parliament is sovereign (de jure).
3
Q
Define Political Sovereignty
A
Sovereignty in practice. This refers to who has ultimate political authority (de facto)
4
Q
Define Popular Sovereignty
A
Supreme authority lies with the people
5
Q
Why, in practice, would Westminster reclaiming their power from devolved bodies be an issue?
A
- It could create a constitutional crisis as they can claim popular legitimacy.
- The longer devolved bodies exercise control over domestic leg, the harder it is to impose direct rule.
6
Q
A
