Unchecked Power?: How Recent Constitutional Reforms Are Threatening UK Democracy

Boris Johnson's premiership was marked by populism and a focus on fulfilling the wishes of the British people, leading to his resignation and replacement. However, other constitutional changes have been taking place with little public awareness, strengthening governmental powers and weakening political and legal checks over governmental actions. Alison Young argues that the UK is on a constitutional cliff-edge, endangering democracy and good constitutional government, and that more is needed to shore up the post-Brexit constitution to prevent it from collapsing into a system of unchecked power.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The question of whether the government is truly acting in the interests of the people or merely using populist rhetoric to justify an executive power grab has been a topic of debate for many. During Boris Johnson's premiership, there were concerns that his focus was more on fulfilling the wishes of the British people than on adhering to the rules or engaging with Parliament. The controversy surrounding events such as 'Partygate' further fueled these doubts. However, some argue that these events demonstrate the strength of the UK's constitution, with checks and balances in place to prevent any potential abuse of power.

While these constitutional changes have garnered significant media attention, there have been other, less publicized changes that have strengthened governmental powers and weakened political and legal checks over governmental actions. The rhetoric surrounding these changes has replaced deliberation, and principles of good government no longer seem to restrain those in power. Alison Young, in her book "The UK's Constitutional Cliff-Edge: Endangering Democracy and Good Constitutional Government," provides a comprehensive account of these changes. Young argues that the UK is currently teetering on the edge of a constitutional cliff, risking the collapse of democracy and the establishment of an unchecked power system.

To address this concern, Young calls for more proactive measures to shore up the UK's post-Brexit constitution. She emphasizes the need for a robust system of constitutional review, independent of the government, to ensure that the constitution is being upheld and that government actions are in line with the principles of democracy and good governance. Young also suggests that there should be greater emphasis on education and public awareness about the constitution to empower citizens to hold their government accountable and protect their rights.

In conclusion, the debate over whether the government is acting for the people or merely using populist rhetoric to justify an executive power grab is complex and multifaceted. While some argue that the UK's constitution provides sufficient checks and balances to prevent abuse of power, others contend that the government's actions have undermined democratic principles and weakened the rule of law. It is essential to address these concerns and take proactive measures to strengthen the UK's post-Brexit constitution to ensure that democracy and good constitutional government are preserved for future generations.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 146 x 216 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529233001
Edition number: Abridged ed