Public Law I - Sources of Power module (LW11012)

This module explores the various types of constitutions and looks at the how the UK Constitution creates, empowers, and limits public authority.

It also discusses the unwritten nature of the UK Constitution, its sources and fundamental principles, and the relationship between the various bodies within the Constitution.

Devolution arrangements, where powers are devolved from London to Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, will be covered with a specific focus on Scotland.

You study in detail the concept of legislative competence and how it is controlled in practice.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore parliamentary sovereignty
• discuss the separation of powers and devolution
• study the rule of law

By the end of the module you will be able to:

• correctly identify and apply the relevant principles and rules, and to state them with a suitable degree of precision
• find, read, and analyse cases and statutes and use them in argument
• demonstrate awareness of the dynamic nature of constitutional debates
• discuss the juxtaposition of the political and legal elements of the UK constitution

Assignments / assessment

• written assignment (30%)
• participation via discussion forum/quizzes (10%) 
• 2-hour multiple choice question exam (60%)

Teaching methods / timetable

Teaching methods for this course include:

• lectures
• tutorials
• independent study

Lectures will be used to present information and structure learning, with some interaction.

Tutorials will allow small group work and student-led discussion.