Westminster and the World
Commonwealth and Comparative Insights for Constitutional Reform
By W. Bulmer
Published
Oct 23, 2020Page count
302 pagesISBN
978-1529200621Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Oct 23, 2020Page count
302 pagesISBN
978-1529200669Imprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Oct 23, 2020Page count
302 pagesISBN
978-1529200669Imprint
Bristol University Press
Westminster and the World
Constitutional scholar Elliot Bulmer considers what Britain might learn from Westminster-derived constitutions around the world. Exploring the principles of Westminster Model constitutions and their impact on democracy, human rights and good government, this book builds to a bold re-imagining of the United Kingdom’s future written framework.
“This book is an invaluable contribution which provides both a critical analysis of the current situation and an argument in favour of a written constitution based on a careful and erudite reconstruction of the global model of Westminster-style constitutionalism." Asanga Welikala, University of Edinburgh and Director of the Edinburgh Centre for Constitutional Law
"Bulmer offers an intriguing model upon which we might found a written constitution, combining reformism with an adaptation of historic tradition. Those with an interest in this important area should read this book." Andrew Blick, King's College London
“Given the crying need for debate on the need for a UK Constitution there is no such thing as a bad contribution. This just happens to be a very good one.” Graham Allen, Creator of Parliaments’ first Written Constitution 2015
Dr W. Elliot Bulmer is Lecturer in Politics at the University of Dundee. Formerly he was a Senior Programme Officer (Constitution Building) at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance and before that served as Research Director of the Constitutional Commission in Scotland. He is a member of the United Nations Development Program's Expert Roster on Governance - Constitutions and is a regular columnist for The Sunday National. He has provided technical assistance in support of constitutional change processes around the world, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Philippines, Tuvalu and Ukraine.
1. Rediscovering Britain’s Wider Constitutional Tradition
2. The Decline and Fall of the British Constitution
3. Towards a Written Constitution
4. Some Objections Answered
5. The Westminster Model as a Constitutional Archetype
6. Foundations, Principles, Rights and Religion
7. The Crown, Prime Minister and Government
8. Parliament I: Functions, Powers and Composition
9. Parliament II: Privileges, Organization and Procedures
10. Nations, Regions and Local Democracy
11. Judiciary, Administration, Elections and Miscellaneous Provisions
12. Constitution-Building Processes
