Bennion on Statutory Interpretation
A Code
By: Francis Alan Roscoe Bennion
About This Book
"This book deals with the type of law text known as legislation, and is mainly concerned with how such as a text is to be interpreted or construed so as to find out it legal meaning (which may not the same as its grammartical or literal meaning). We need to begin by considering the nature of a legislative text, and we find that there are different types of such texts. The main type under the common law system is the Act of Parliament. Another type is the subordinate instrument, known as delegated legislation, which is made in exercise of powers conferred by Act of Parliament. The body of law dealing with all this is known as statute law"--P. 5.
AI Overview
The book "Bennion on Statutory Interpretation" is a seminal work in the field of statutory interpretation, authored by Francis Alan Roscoe Bennion. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Comprehensive Guide: The book provides a clear and comprehensive guide to understanding, interpreting, and applying legislation. It covers various aspects of statutory interpretation, including the principles, methods, and practical applications.
- Recent Developments: The eighth edition includes a comprehensive account of recent developments, such as enhanced coverage of EU-related law in light of Brexit and new content on devolved legislation contributed by subject specialists.
- Logical Structure: The book is structured logically, with each section beginning with a legal proposition followed by detailed commentary and analysis. This structure enables readers to find information quickly and understand the application of principles discussed in the text.
Plot Summary
The book is divided into several parts that cover various aspects of statutory interpretation:
General Introduction
- This part introduces the reader to the basics of statutory interpretation, providing an overview of the subject and its importance.
Acts of Parliament
- This chapter discusses the nature and characteristics of Acts of Parliament, including their extent, commencement, and amendment.
Delegated Legislation and Prerogative Instruments
- This chapter explores delegated legislation and prerogative instruments, which are crucial in understanding how laws are made and applied.
Devolved Legislation
- The book covers devolved legislation, which includes laws made by the devolved legislatures in the UK. This section is particularly relevant given the recent changes in the UK's legislative landscape.
Extent, Commencement, Amendment, and Other General Matters
- This part delves into the general matters related to statutes, including their extent, commencement, amendment, and other related issues.
Critical Reception
"Bennion on Statutory Interpretation" is widely regarded as a leading work in the field of statutory interpretation. It is frequently cited in judgments throughout the common law world and is a trusted and authoritative resource for both practitioners and academics. The book's comprehensive coverage, logical structure, and regular updates make it a valuable tool for anyone dealing with legislation.
The critical reception of the book is positive, with reviewers praising its clarity, comprehensiveness, and practical application. The eighth edition has been particularly well-received for its enhanced coverage of EU-related law and devolved legislation, making it a go-to resource for understanding the complexities of modern statutory interpretation.
Editions
The book has been published in several editions, with the eighth edition being the most recent. The seventh edition, published in 2017, was also well-received and is still widely used. The text teaches how to extract the relevant interpretative criteria in determining the legal meaning and effect of all sorts of legislation in a straightforward and concise manner.
In summary, "Bennion on Statutory Interpretation" is a foundational text in the field of statutory interpretation, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding, interpreting, and applying legislation. Its logical structure, regular updates, and authoritative content make it a trusted resource for both legal practitioners and academics.