Concise and stimulating introduction to the full scope of public law. Designed to supplement the traditional textbook, it will equip students to think critically about the law and to challenge orthodox assumptions Includes discussion of the historical development of the subject, providing students with context and background to aid understanding. Includes a bibliographical essay to guide students to further reading. Written in the well-established tradition of the Clarendon Law Series, Public Law offers a stimulating re-interpretation of the central themes and problems of English constitutional law. It offers full consideration of the historical development of public law. This book is an introduction that will be especially appealing to the enquiring student who is looking to reflect critically on the assumptions underpinning the standard presentation of the subject. Written throughout in an engaging and accessible style, Public Law examines the issues of power and accountability that are central to constitutional and administrative law. Among the topics considered are the unwritten nature of the constitution, the changing relationship between the law and the politics of the constitution, the separation of powers, the enduring influence of the crown, the role and functions of Parliament, questions of responsible government, and the law of judicial review and human rights.