Description
Book SynopsisUsing analysis from machine readings of all legislation enacted between 1900 and 2015, this book discusses the social impact of increasingly elastic legislative language on the contemporary workings of the British constitution. Crucially, it shows that vague legislation has a tremendous impact on policy delivery, disproportionately affecting the weakest, in areas including immigration, homelessness and anti-discrimination.
Trade Review“… impressive and extremely thought-provoking… The book contains much data that throws a new light on the various debates in which it is situated.” Local Government Studies
"provides a valuable window into the world of legislation and its consequences. A go-to book for all those involved in drafting, amending, interpreting and researching legislation." Louise Thompson, University of Surrey
Table of ContentsPart One — Language and Politics in the UK; 1 Introduction — How Language Works in Politics; 2 Past — How Has Parliament's Use of Language Changed? 3 Present — Why Has Parliament's Use of Language Changed? Part Two — The Social Impact of Parliament’s Use of Language; 4 Immigration — How Parliament’s Language Affects Central Government Powers; 5 Homelessness — How Parliament’s Language Affects Local Government Duties; 6 Anti-discrimination and Equality — How Parliament’s Language Affects Individual Rights; Part Three — Fixing the Code; 7 Constitutional Language — Lessons from Beyond Westminster 8 Filling Gaps — The Human Rights Act 1998 Conclusions.
