4.4.1 Where does sovereignty lie in the UK?

Question 1

Define sovereignty

Answer 1

‘ultimate’ authority

Question 2

Define parliamentary sovereignty

Answer 2

Parliament is the ultimate authority: other institutions cannot overrule laws passed by Parliament

Question 3

Define political sovereignty

Answer 3

refers to an ‘absolute’ authority; since the legislature’s authority derives from the public, the public may be said to exercise sovereignty

Question 4

Define legal sovereignty

Answer 4

represents the right of Parliament to enact legislation which has absolute authority & cannot be overturned by any other body