The Constitution of the United Kingdom: A Contextual Analysis

(Paperback, 4th edition)

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Praise for the previous editions [A] slim guide to the constitution of the United Kingdom that is both highly readable and impressively thorough. It deserves a place on undergraduate reading lists [students] will certainly find it worth their while Cambridge Law Journal [The] written style is admirably clear, conversational and free from jargon It will be of immense interest to anybody with a general interest in UK law, politics and history. Times Higher Education This timely new edition addresses the many constitutional changes that have arisen since 2016 (including those brought about by Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic) whilst retaining its hallmark features of clarity and concision. Adopting a thematic approach, it discusses questions of history, sources and conventions, the role of the Crown, Parliament and the electoral system, government and the executive, the judiciary, and the territorial distribution of power. In addition, it offers analysis of the evolution of the UKs historic non-codified constitution, its strengths and perceived weaknesses, and of reform initiatives. Engaging with the central issues in play as the UK enters a new chapter, it explores the impact on devolved government, the principle of sovereignty, the role of the courts and parliamentary reform. As well as providing a contextual and authoritative overview of the principles, doctrines and institutions that underpin the elusive constitution, this study will allow students of law and politics, both from the UK and abroad, to develop an informed view of how it actually works.

Reviews

Signposting is clear and helpful. Bibliographies are to the point...The prose is clear and authoritative. The reader's tour of Britain's constitutional history is efficient. The parliamentary process, including the passage of bills through Westminster, is described accessibly and with concision. The classic texts of constitutional analysis Dicey, Bagehot, Jennings and the like are introduced and their contribution summarised. And the radical reforms of the Blair administrations are recounted effectively...a valuable introductory survey. -- Andrew MacDonald * The Law & Politics Book Review *
I was aware of the quality and accessibility of the material that the books covers. The current edition is a very useful update that takes into account the most important developments of the UK constitution. -- Dr Nikos Skoutaris * University of East Anglia *
A clear exploration of the UK's constitution. Given the immense complexity in analysing an ever-moving set of constitutional arrangements this book presents the issues clearly and readably. My students will benefit greatly from the precision and clarity this book offers. -- Samuel White * University of the West of Scotland *

Author Bio

Peter Leyland is Professor of Public Law at SOAS, University of London.