What are the main sources of the UK constitution? Flashcards
What is the primary legislation in the UK constitution?
Acts of Parliament
True or False: The UK constitution is a single written document.
False
Fill in the blank: The UK constitution is described as _____ because it is not codified.
unwritten
What are conventions in the context of the UK constitution?
Unwritten rules that are followed by the country’s institutions.
Name one source of the UK constitution.
Statute law
What is case law?
Law established by the outcome of former court cases.
True or False: European Union law is a source of the UK constitution.
True
What is the significance of the Magna Carta in the UK constitution?
It established the principle of the rule of law.
What role does common law play in the UK constitution?
It forms part of the legal framework through judicial precedents.
What are treaties in relation to the UK constitution?
Formal agreements between countries that can affect domestic law.
Fill in the blank: The UK constitution includes _____ which are established through tradition and practice.
conventions
What is the difference between statute law and common law?
Statute law is written law passed by Parliament, while common law is developed through court decisions.
Name one important statute that forms part of the UK constitution.
The Human Rights Act 1998
True or False: The UK has a flexible constitution.
True
What is the role of the judiciary in the UK constitution?
To interpret and apply the law, ensuring justice and upholding the constitution.
What are unwritten sources of the UK constitution?
Sources that are not formally documented, such as conventions and traditions.
Fill in the blank: The _____ of Parliament is a key source of UK constitutional law.
sovereignty
What is the significance of the Parliament Acts 1911 and 1949?
They allow the House of Commons to bypass the House of Lords in certain circumstances.
What is the role of the Prime Minister in the UK constitution?
To lead the government and make key policy decisions.
True or False: The UK constitution can only be changed through a referendum.
False
What is devolution in the context of the UK constitution?
The transfer of powers from Parliament to regional governments.
What is the significance of the Bill of Rights 1689?
It limited the powers of the monarchy and established certain rights for Parliament.
Name one convention of the UK constitution.
The Prime Minister must be a member of the House of Commons.
Fill in the blank: The _____ is the ultimate source of authority in the UK constitution.
Parliament
