United Kingdom Constitution: An Introduction

This volume provides an introduction to the UK constitution, recognizing its historical, social, political, and legal dimensions. It examines the radical changes over the last thirty years, including the revival of the constituent territories and the increasing role of judges in constitutional disputes. The constitution is shaped by constitutional principles such as state sovereignty, separation of powers, democracy, subsidiarity, and the rule of law.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 400 pages
\n Publication date: 05 October 2021
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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This comprehensive volume offers an insightful introduction to the United Kingdom's constitution, acknowledging and embracing its historical, social, political, and legal dimensions. It delves into a critical examination of the significant constitutional transformations that have taken place in the UK over the past thirty years, with a particular focus on the revival of the constituent territories of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England, as well as the growing influence of judges in constitutional disputes. The UK constitution is portrayed as being guided by a set of fundamental constitutional principles, including state sovereignty, separation of powers, democracy, subsidiarity, and the rule of law. These principles serve as the overarching framework that shapes the constitution and informs the interpretation of statutes and judicial decisions. By adopting a principled approach to the UK constitution, readers gain a clear understanding of its structural clarity and are also provided with valuable insights into its complexities.

The book begins by providing a historical overview of the UK constitution, tracing its evolution from the medieval era to the present day. It explores the various constitutional conventions, statutes, and judicial decisions that have shaped the country's constitutional landscape. The authors then examine the radical changes that have occurred in recent decades, including the devolution of powers to the constituent territories, the expansion of judicial review, and the increasing role of the European Union in shaping the UK's constitutional identity.

One of the key themes of the book is the revival of the constituent territories of the UK. The authors argue that the devolution of powers has been a crucial step in ensuring that the voices of different regions are heard in the constitutional process. They explore the role of the Welsh Assembly, the Scottish Parliament, the Northern Ireland Assembly, and the English Parliament in shaping the policies and laws of their respective regions. The book also examines the challenges that have arisen from the devolution process, such as the tensions between central government and the devolved administrations, and the need for effective governance and coordination between the different levels of government.

Another important theme of the book is the increasing role played by the judges in constitutional disputes. The authors argue that the judges have become increasingly important in interpreting the constitution and resolving constitutional conflicts. They discuss the role of the Supreme Court in constitutional cases, as well as the role of lower courts in interpreting statutes and making constitutional decisions. The book also examines the impact of judicial activism on the constitution, particularly in cases involving human rights government, and the need for judicial restraint and deference to the elected branches of government.

The book concludes by reflecting on the future of the UK constitution. The authors argue that the constitution is a living and evolving document that responds to the changing needs and aspirations of the British people. They discuss the challenges that the UK faces in the coming years, such as the impact of Brexit, the rise of populism, and the need for constitutional reform. The book also suggests that the UK constitution can serve as a model for other countries seeking to promote democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume provides an insightful introduction to the United Kingdom's constitution, acknowledging and embracing its historical, social, political, and legal dimensions. It delves into a critical examination of the significant constitutional transformations that have taken place in the UK over the past thirty years, with a particular focus on the revival of the constituent territories of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England, as well as the growing influence of judges in constitutional disputes. The book adopts a principled approach to the UK constitution, allowing readers to gain a clear understanding of its structural clarity and also provides valuable insights into its complexities. By adopting a principled approach to the UK constitution, readers gain a clear understanding of its structural clarity and also provide valuable insights into its complexities.

\n Weight: 482g\n
Dimension: 216 x 139 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198852322\n \n