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Difficulty: MediumThe British Constitution

Due to its uncodified nature, the British constitution is often described as 'flexible'. What occurs if a new Act of Parliament is passed that alters the UK's governing principles?

  1. The new Act of Parliament becomes part of the constitution and can change or override existing rules.Answer
  2. B
    The new law is automatically invalid because constitutional rules can only be modified through a national referendum.
  3. C
    The law only takes effect if it is confirmed to be consistent with the historical judgments and precedents of senior judges.
  4. D
    The Monarch must personally approve the change using their absolute power to decide which laws are constitutional.

Answer

The new Act of Parliament becomes part of the constitution and can change or override existing rules.
The correct answer reflects the 'flexible' nature of the uncodified British constitution. Because there is no single, supreme document that requires a special amendment process, the UK Parliament can pass new laws (Statute Law) that update or replace existing constitutional rules and traditions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the nature of the British constitution.
The constitution is uncodified and flexible.
This means it is not contained in a single document and can be changed relatively easily.
2
Determine the role of Statute Law (Acts of Parliament).
Statute Law is a primary source of the constitution.
Acts passed by Parliament are the highest form of law in the UK.
3
Evaluate the effect of a new Act on existing rules.
The new Act overrides older conflicting rules and becomes part of the constitutional framework.
Parliamentary sovereignty allows the legislature to change the constitution through standard law-making processes.

Key Concept

Flexibility and Sources of the Constitution
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

The British Constitution

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