Sources of the UK Constitution

Created by: Amy Taylor
Created on: 28-04-13 15:51

Acts of Parliament (Parliamentary Statutes)

Written sources of the constitution that are made in parliament and have the effect of creating a statute. Examples include Equal Franchise Act 1928 and the Human Rights Act 1998

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Constitutional Conventions

Unwritten sources that are considered binding on all members of the political community. Examples include many prime ministerial powers and the Salisbury Conventions (stating that the House of Lords cannot block legislation for more than 1 year)

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Historical Principles

Written or unwritten sources that are considered binding as they have established over a long period of time. Examples include parliamentary sovereignty and the rule of law.

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Common Law

Development of law through historical usage and tradition. Most concern the principles of rights and justice.

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Traditions

Practices and traditions that occur within Parliament. Examples include the State Opening and the Queen's speech outlining the Government's agenda for the year.

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EU Law

Written laws that take precedence over UK law. Examples include Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

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Other cards in this set

Card 2

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Back

Constitutional Conventions

Card 3

Front

Written or unwritten sources that are considered binding as they have established over a long period of time. Examples include parliamentary sovereignty and the rule of law.

Back

Card 4

Front

Development of law through historical usage and tradition. Most concern the principles of rights and justice.

Back

Card 5

Front

Practices and traditions that occur within Parliament. Examples include the State Opening and the Queen's speech outlining the Government's agenda for the year.

Back

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Sources of the UK Constitution