Nature of the UK Constitution

Question 1

Unentrenched

Answer 1

• The UK constitution is unentrenched. meaning that it is easily changed - by a simple act of parliament or even a shift in convention

Question 2

Uncodified

Answer 2

• The UK constitution is uncodified, meaning that it is not written down in one document and it made up of multiple sources

Question 3

Unitary

Answer 3

• The UK constitution is unitary, meaning that all power is centralised in the Parliament in Westminster
• This principle has been diluted in recent years due to devolution and many scholars would not refer to the UK as a ‘Union state’

Question 4

Parliamentary sovereignty

Answer 4

• Parliamentary sovereignty is the idea that parliament is supreme and ultimate authority sits with it, as representative of the people.
• No parliament can bind its successor this means that parliament can repeal any act passed by previous parliament
• Parliament is also the supreme legislative body and legislation can’t be changed, struck down or ignored by the judiciary or the executive

Question 5

Rule of Law

Answer 5

• Rule of Law is the idea that everyone including the government is subject to the law and held accountable to it
• In reality, this means. that everyone is entitled to a fair trial and all citizens, including public officials are equal under lose and must obey it
• For this to work effectively, the judiciary must also be independent of political interference