Understanding the UK Constitution: Evolution and Principles

Revision sheet excerpt

Course Outline

  1. Introduction to UK Constitution
  2. Sources of UK Constitution
  3. Uncodified Constitution
  4. Ridley's Criteria for Constitution
  5. UK Constitution and Ridley's Criteria

1. Introduction to UK Constitution

Key Concepts & Definitions

  • Constitutional monarchy: UK is a monarchy where the monarch's powers are limited by constitutional rules (AUTHOR (2001): set of rules regulating relations between government parts and people). Since 2022, King Charles III holds this role.
  • Parliamentary regime: UK operates with a parliamentary system where the government is accountable to Parliament, not directly to the monarch.
  • Bicameral parliament: UK Parliament has two chambers—House of Commons (elected) and House of Lords (non-elected)—sitting at Westminster.
  • Brexit: 2016 referendum decision for UK to leave the EU, affecting union and constitutional arrangements, especially in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
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Quiz preview

1. According to Oliver, how did the UK constitution develop?

2. Who is credited with describing the organic, piecemeal development of the UK constitution?

3. What is the primary function of an uncodified constitution?

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Flashcards preview

UK Constitution — type?

Uncodified, based on statutes, conventions, and treaties.

Sources of UK Constitution?

Statutes, conventions, case law, treaties.

Uncodified — meaning?

Not contained in a single written document.

Ridley's criteria — key feature?

External constituent power creates the constitution.

UK vs codified — difference?

UK lacks a single, supreme written document.

Entrenchment — UK?

No, UK rules are flexible and amendable.

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