The Constitutional Balance - by John Laws (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In The Constitutional Balance Sir John Laws has left a vivid and timely commentary on one of the most pressing issues in the legal world today.

The debate continues whether or not judges venture too far into issues of Government policy, and whether or not there are any limits on the power of the executive and the legislature to propose and enact legislation that unduly restricts fundamental freedoms in a democratic society subject to the rule of law.

Sir John Laws examines the relationship between constitutional fundamentals and values. He finds basic ideals of reason, fairness and the presumption of liberty in the common law, and recognises that a democratically accountable executive and legislature must be able to make policy and enact and implement legislation to pursue social goals. The courts then interpret the laws. As Sir John puts it - "The meeting of Parliament and the common law, in the crucible of statutory interpretation, is close to the core of [the constitutional balance]".

These fundamental values can compete with each other, giving rise to tensions within and between key state institutions, in particular the executive and the judiciary. A 'constitutional balance' between them must be found if the constitution is to function properly, each institution is to understand the proper extent and limits of its authority, and the rule of law is to be maintained. Sir John draws on his life-long experience as a barrister, judge and academic, and on case-law and learning, to explain in vibrant and engaging terms how such a 'constitutional balance' might be achieved.

Review Quotes

"The Constitutional Balance is an excellent book. It represents the culmination of a lifetime of deep thinking about the nature of UK constitutional law. Anyone remotely interested in constitutional theory should read this book ... this book warrants careful reading by anyone working in constitutional theory and will be an invaluable resource for students ... Laws has managed to provide a thoroughly accessible book that is nevertheless nuanced and insightful. A fitting final publication for a man whose writing has always struck that balance so well." --Michael Foran, University of Strathclyde, Edinburgh Law Review

About the Author

John Laws was First Junior Counsel to the Treasury, Common Law (1984-92), High Court Judge (1992-99), Lord Justice of Appeal (1999-2016) and Goodhart Professor of Legal Science at Cambridge University (2016-17).