Public Law and Human Rights is a core module in the legal education of the United Kingdom (UK). Throughout the world it is known as common law. While common law consists of case-law and statutes, it has reached its present state by incorporating elements of international law, prerogative power and other legal and non-legal sources such as conventions and customs. This book closely examines the public law (constitution and administrative law) and human rights system of the UK (England and Wales in particular). The reason for the emergence of this book is that other publications do not explain such a complex issue in plain language, which makes it very difficult for those taking an interest, in particular A-level as well as LLB/LLM law students. This book does not repeat material that is available in many textbooks that are in print. Rather, it endeavours to present every topic in plain language and concludes every chapter with a fictitious, explanatory sample case. This book will also assist students to prepare for examinations. It comes with a test that summarizes all the subjects contained in the book, which is appropriate to the first stage SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination) examination.

This concise text brings clearly into focus the key elements of public law and human rights. The Q&A approach, examples and exercises provide an excellent way for students to both gain knowledge and apply that knowledge to this complex area of law.

– Dr Ryan Hill, Deputy Head of School, Anglia Ruskin University, Law School, UK

This resource presents the core framework of Public Law and human rights within the United Kingdom, and also the key current debates surrounding this subject, in clear and accessible language. The technique of using fictional cases to work through practical issues is an excellent way for students to gain insight into the real world application of theoretical principles. Not only does this book help prepare learners for assessments, it also provides support in developing critical legal thinking which will be of great value in their professional lives.

– Javier Garcia Oliva, Professor of Law, The University of Manchester, UK

CONTENTS:

Abbreviations

About the author

Foreword

PART A. Constitutional Law

CHAPTER I. Introduction: The Nature and Sources of the Constitution

CHAPTER II. Fundamental Constitutional Principles

CHAPTER III. Houses of Parliament and the Legislative Process

PART B. Human Rights

CHAPTER IV. Human Rights in the UK: Human Rights Act 1998 and European Convention on Human Rights

CHAPTER V. Fundamental Freedoms in the Human Rights Act/European Convention on Human Rights

PART C. Administrative Law

CHAPTER VI. The Principles of Judicial Review and Preliminary Requirements

CHAPTER VII. Judicial Review Grounds I: Illegality and Unreasonableness/Irrationality

CHAPTER VIII. Judicial Review Grounds II: Procedural Impropriety

CHAPTER IX. Administrative Justice: Inquiries, Ombudsman and Tribunals

SUMMARY: Sample Test Questions

PART A – Constitutional Law

PART B – Human Rights

PART C – Administrative Law

ANSWERS