The New British Constitution: An Introduction to the Key Issues

The New British Constitution

by Vernon Bogdanor

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1571 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	335 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

The New British Constitution is a term used to describe the significant changes that have taken place in the UK's constitutional arrangements since the 1990s. These changes have been driven by a number of factors, including the devolution of power to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland; the incorporation of the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law; and the increasing importance of constitutional conventions.

The New British Constitution is a complex and evolving subject, and there is no single authoritative text that sets out its provisions. However, there are a number of key issues that are central to the debate about the New British Constitution, including the role of the monarchy, the powers of Parliament, and the rights of citizens.

The Role of the Monarchy

The British monarchy is one of the oldest and most enduring institutions in the world. The current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, has reigned for over 70 years, and is head of state of the UK and 14 other Commonwealth realms.

The role of the monarchy in the New British Constitution is a matter of debate. Some argue that the monarchy is an outdated institution that has no place in a modern democracy. Others argue that the monarchy provides stability and continuity, and is a symbol of national unity.

The powers of the monarchy are limited by statute and convention. The Queen has no direct political power, and she must act on the advice of her ministers. However, she does have a number of important symbolic and ceremonial functions, such as opening Parliament and giving the Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament.

The Powers of Parliament

Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the UK. It consists of the House of Commons, which is elected by the people, and the House of Lords, which is appointed by the Queen.

The powers of Parliament are set out in the Constitution Act 2011. Parliament can make laws on any subject, and its laws are binding on the government and the courts.

However, the powers of Parliament are not absolute. Parliament cannot make laws that are incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights. Additionally, Parliament cannot repeal or amend the Constitution Act 2011 without the consent of the people in a referendum.

The Rights of Citizens

The New British Constitution includes a number of important rights for citizens, including the right to freedom of expression, the right to a fair trial, and the right to vote.

These rights are protected by the European Convention on Human Rights, which has been incorporated into UK law by the Human Rights Act 1998.

The Human Rights Act gives individuals the right to seek legal remedies if their rights have been violated. This has led to a number of significant changes in the way that the UK government operates, and has helped to protect the rights of citizens.

The New British Constitution is a complex and evolving subject. The key issues that are central to the debate about the New British Constitution include the role of the monarchy, the powers of Parliament, and the rights of citizens.

These issues are likely to continue to be debated for many years to come, as the UK's constitutional arrangements continue to adapt to the changing needs of the country.

The New British Constitution

by Vernon Bogdanor

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1571 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	335 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE