Law Reform Flashcards
What are political influences on Parliament?
Manifesto: published before election, outline of reforms, aim to persuade.
Government control: winning party 5yrs to implement reforms.
Private members bill: backbencher introduces bill.
e.g Abortion Act
What is public opinion/media and how do they influence Parliament?
Strong public opinion pressures government to change laws.
Media amplifies public opinion by highlighting issues.
e.g Dangerous Dogs Act
What are pressure groups and how do they influence Parliament?
Campaign specific interests, influence public opinion.
Raise awareness to change law.
What are sectional pressure groups?
Section of society e.g trade unions.
What are cause pressure groups?
Specific cause/issue.
e.g RSPCA
What are lobbyists and how do they influence Parliament?
Individuals who persuade MP’s in HoC hallways.
Persuade MP who won ballot to promote a bill.
What types of lobbyists are there?
Individuals, Pressure groups, Professionals (on behalf of businesses or trade associations).
What is the law commission and how does it influence Parliament?
Independent body from Law Commission Act.
Review + reform law to be clear + fair + modern.
What is the law commission made of?
Chairman (high court judge 3y+ experience), 4 law commissioners (judges, barristers, solicitors), Support staff (help research + admin).
What is the role of the law commission?
S3 - keep law under review + reform for systematic development.
What is codification in the role of the law commission?
Bring all laws from 1 topic into 1 clear code.
What is consolidation in the role of the law commission?
Combine existing law into 1 act without change.
What is repeal in the role of the law commission?
Remove outdated/unnecessary laws.
What is referral in the law commission process?
Government or commission identifies area for reform.
What is research in the law commission process?
Research + publish consultation paper for opinions.
What is proposal in the law commission process?
Final report + draft bill to parliament.
What is implementation in the law commission process?
Parliament chooses to implement bill.
What is the success of the law commission?
300+ reforms proposed, 66% implemented.
e.g OLA 1984
