Question

What is implied by the term ‘unwritten’ constitution?

Answer 1

The term ‘unwritten’ constitution refers to a constitution not contained in a single, formal document but based on:

1. Customs and traditions: These are long-established practices or customs followed by the government, such as the role of the Prime Minister in the UK or the conduct of parliamentary proceedings.
2. Judicial decisions: Court rulings and legal precedents that interpret the constitution and establish binding principles for future cases, such as common law in the UK.
3. Parliamentary statutes: These are laws passed by the parliament or legislature that form part of the constitutional framework, like the Magna Carta or the Parliament Acts in the UK.
4. Conventions: These are unwritten rules or practices that have developed over time to guide the functioning of government, such as the neutrality of the Speaker of the House in the UK.