National Security Constitution

The book explores how modern approaches to national security have impacted the constitutional order of the United Kingdom. It examines the body of counter-terrorism legislation, the evolving law of investigatory powers, and the law and practice governing international military action and cooperation. It demonstrates that considerations of national security are reflected in other areas of public law, leading to a national security constitution.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book delves into the profound impact of modern approaches to national security on the constitutional order of the United Kingdom. It provides a comprehensive outline and assessment of the constitutional significance of the three primary elements of the UK's response to the threat of terrorism and other security-related phenomena: the body of counter-terrorism legislation that has emerged over the past decade and a half; the evolving law of investigatory powers; and, to the extent relevant to the domestic constitution, the law and practice governing international military action and cooperation.

Following this, the author demonstrates that considerations of national security, as a valuable good to be protected and promoted in contemporary Britain, permeate various areas of public law. Elements of the constitution that are not inherently linked to national security nevertheless become implicated in the state's national security endeavors, with significant and far-reaching consequences for the constitutional order as a whole.

A renewed and strengthened concern for national security since September 2001 has brought into its orbit a diverse range of constitutional phenomena, altering them in its image and giving rise to what can be termed a national security constitution. This transformation has profound implications for the balance of powers, individual rights, and the democratic governance of the UK.

The book explores the complex interplay between national security, the rule of law, and the broader constitutional framework, examining how these elements interact and influence each other. It sheds light on the challenges and dilemmas faced by policymakers, judges, and citizens in navigating the complex web of laws and policies aimed at safeguarding national security.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this book offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of the constitutional order in the UK and its response to the contemporary security landscape. It serves as a crucial resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics between national security, the rule of law, and the broader constitutional framework.

Weight: 602g
Dimension: 175 x 245 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509941155