The Constitution of the United Kingdom Flashcards
The UK constitution is uncodified and unwritten, is this true?
Yes.
What quality does the unwritten nature give the UK constitution?
It is flexible and can evolve as the times change.
What is the constitution divided into?
Parliament (legislature)
Judiciary
Government (executive)
Is there a strict separation of powers?
No - but the Constitutional Reform Act helped create a better balance of powers between judiciary and the other 2.
What are the principles that underpin the UK Constitution?
Parliamentary sovereignty
Rule of Law
Democracy
Separation of powers - there should be enough checks and balances between the 3 powers
Internationalism - comply with international laws
Accountability - government accountable to parliament and courts.
What is an ouster clause?
An ouster clause, also known as a privative clause, is a provision in a law that prevents judicial review of a public body’s decisions or actions. Ouster clauses are used to limit the courts’ ability to oversee the executive branch.
What is Parliament known for?
Supereme law-making powers.