Unchecked Power?

Is the government really acting for the people? Or does this rhetoric simply justify an executive power-grab?

For some, Boris Johnson’s premiership epitomised how far the UK’s democracy has been captured by populism and the Prime Minister seemed more concerned about fulfilling the wishes of the British people than with following the rules or listening to Parliament.

Events like ‘Partygate’ grabbed the headlines. Criticisms of Boris Johnson’s actions eventually led to his resignation and replacement as leader of his party and Prime Minister. Some feel that this shows that the UK’s constitution is healthy, with checks and balances in place to prevent any possible abuse of power.

While these events attracted much media attention, other constitutional changes have been taking place with little public awareness. These have strengthened governmental powers and weakened political and legal checks over governmental actions. Deliberation is being replaced by rhetoric and principles of good government no longer seem to restrain the actions of those in power.

Alison Young provides the first consolidated account of these changes, arguing that the UK is currently on a constitutional cliff-edge which endangers democracy and good constitutional government. She argues that more is needed to shore up the UK’s post-Brexit constitution to prevent it collapsing into a system of unchecked power.

 "A powerful account of how the UK’s custom-based and uncodified constitution has come under strain in recent years, " LSE Review of Books

“A brilliant and innovative account of the health of British constitutional democracy under the rule of Boris Johnson’s Conservative government.” Bojan Bugaric, University of Sheffield.

“Alison Young is a meticulous and objective chronicler of our constitution. When she says it's time to worry, we should take that seriously.” Meg Russell, Constitution Unit, UCL

“Liberal democracy means checks on the power of elected governments. Alison Young provides a salutary, timely and readable reminder of why this matters.” Anand Menon, UK in a Changing Europe

"An illuminating, insightful and timely account of the UK’s post-Brexit constitutional problems – its special achievement is the way it captures and explores a number of important trends, connecting them while making them highly accessible to a wide audience.” Mike Gordon, University of Liverpool

“Alison Young understands constitutional law and practice and has a remarkable ability to communicate both the content and the importance of how we are governed.” Lord Pannick KC

“Invaluable. A balanced and illuminating analysis of critical contemporary developments to our constitutional arrangements.” The Rt Hon. the Lord Judge, Convenor of the Cross Bench Peers, 2019–2023

1. The Post-Brexit Constitution: Standing on a Constitutional Cliff Edge?

2. What Is Populism and Should We Be Worried?

3. Is the Government Getting Too Big for Its Boots?

4. Checks and Balances or Crowing and Bolstering?

5. Constitutional Guardrails or Greasy Poles?

6. Getting Things Done or Putting on a Show?

7. Constitutional Watchdogs: Rottweilers or Lapdogs?

8. Should We Be Afraid and if So What Should We Do about It?