Constitutional And Administrative Law

PREFACEThe purpose of this book is to introduce the reader to the fundamental principles and concepts of Constitutional and Administrative Law, or Public Law as it is sometimes also called. Given the size of the book and the ethos of the Core Text series, the treatment accorded to each topic does not claim to be exhaustive. It is hoped, however, that readers will find that it accords them access to the core of the subiect and that they will make good use of the Further Reading lists (at the end of each chapter) to enhance their knowledge and understanding. Much of the material referred to therein will be especially useful to those who are required to write essays, especially those who wish to be able to demonstrate that their learning has been gleaned from more than a textbook and their lecture notes.An underlying intention of the Core Text series is that the titles in the series should appear in new editions on a regular basis so that readers can be confident that they are consulting up-to-date information. Nevertheless, since Constitutional and Administrative Law is a dynamic subject, the reader ought to utilize the Online Resource Centre which accompanies OUP's Public Law titles. This will make you aware of important developments which occur between editions.The Blair and Brown Labour Governments pursued a reformist agenda when it came to the constitution. The present coalition Government appears minded to do like-wise. Since the May 2010 general election, therefore, several important developments have taken place, including the enactment of the Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011 and the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011. Reform of the House of Lords remains on the agenda, as evidenced by the publication of a draft Bill.Legislation to provide for the recall of MPs is a further commitment set out in the coalition agreement which is likely to be introduced before too long. These continue to be interesting times for the student of Constitutional and Administrative Law.As with several of its predecessors, the task of producing a new edition of this book began with OUP commissioning reviews of the previous edition. The comments which the anonymous reviewers provided were, as ever, very helpful. I am grateful to them for taking the time and trouble to be part of the process. I am also grateful to the law publishing staff at OUP for the efficient way in which they have handled all aspects of the publication of this seventh edition. The year 2000, when the first edition appeared, seems a long time ago now. It is very pleasing that there has been a demand for the title in the years that have followed.Thanks are also owed in great measure to my partner and colleague, Katharine Thompson, and to our two children, Catriona and Calum. Since none of them would want me to write anything which embarrasses them, I shall just say that I love you all very much!I would like to dedicate this edition to the memory of John and Olive May, who were much loved and are much missed parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.