Question

Discuss the organisation of the Supreme Court of UK.

Answer 1

The organisation of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom (UK) reflects its role as the apex judicial body in a unitary state.

1. Establishment and Structure: The Supreme Court of the UK was established in October 2009, replacing the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords. This marked a significant step in ensuring a clear separation of powers between the judiciary and the legislature.
2. Jurisdiction: It serves as the highest court of appeal for civil cases across the UK, and for criminal cases from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The court hears cases of the greatest public or constitutional importance affecting the whole population.
3. Composition: The court is composed of 12 Justices, including the President and Deputy President. These Justices are appointed by the King on the advice of the Prime Minister, following recommendations from an independent selection commission.
4. Function: The Supreme Court deals primarily with appeals on important points of law. It does not conduct trials or hear evidence. Additionally, it handles cases concerning the devolution of powers to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
5. No Judicial Review: Unlike the Supreme Courts in India and the USA, the UK Supreme Court does not have the power of judicial review over Acts of Parliament. The British Parliament remains sovereign, and its laws are supreme. Courts in the UK cannot declare a law unconstitutional.
6. Role in a Unitary State: Since the UK is a unitary state, the judicial system is centralised, and the Supreme Court oversees the application of law uniformly across the entire country.