Chapter 8 - 4/10 - The Supreme Court

Question 1

Other than controlling government power and establishing the meaning of law, what other role does the Supreme Court have?

Answer 1

Protecting rights

Question 2

In what 4 circumstances can the Supreme Court act to uphold citizens’ rights?

Answer 2

• When a public body has abused someone’s rights.
• When a body of the state has acted ultra vires.
• When an appeal is made claiming that the rule of law has not been applied.
• When a common law right has been abused.

Question 3

What can the Supreme Court do if they find rights have been infringed?

Answer 3

They can set aside the action that has infringed on someone’s rights and order compensation.

Question 4

What case concerning rights was brought before the Supreme Court in 2015?

Answer 4

Evans v Attorney General

Question 5

What were the details of Evans v Attorney General?

Answer 5

A Freedom of Information request was made requesting Prince Charles’ letters to the government be published.

Question 6

What right was involved in the case of Evans v Attorney General?

Answer 6

Freedom of Information Act

Question 7

What was the outcome of Evans v Attorney General?

Answer 7

The Supreme Court ruled that Prince Charles’ letters should be published under the Freedom of Information Act.