The "Rule of Law" is a fundamental principle of the British constitution that ensures a balance of power. Which of the following statements most accurately describes how this principle applies to the government and the monarch?
- They must act according to the law and their actions can be challenged in the courts if they exceed their authority.Answer
- BThe monarch possesses a constitutional prerogative to override the law if it is necessary to maintain national stability.
- CAs the UK has an uncodified constitution, the rule of law is a convention that ministers can bypass during administrative emergencies.
- DThe rule of law applies exclusively to Common Law, meaning it does not restrict government powers granted by new Statute Law.
Answer
The correct answer states that the government and the monarch must act according to the law and their actions can be challenged in court.
The Rule of Law is a fundamental principle meaning that no one is above the law, including the government and the monarch. This ensures that everyone is equal before the law and that the government must act within its legal authority. If the government or monarch acts outside of their legal powers, those actions can be reviewed and challenged in a court of law.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The Rule of Law as a limit on arbitrary power
Practice More
Review the differences between Statute Law and Common Law to understand how they both contribute to the UK constitution.
Estimated Time:1m 30s