UK Constitution and Governance Structure

Definition: The UK constitution is a legal framework of rules and practices defining how a state is governed. It specifies powers of governing institutions and their formal relationships.
Uncodified Nature: Unlike most countries, the UK does not have a codified constitution, meaning there’s no single formal document outlining the state’s fundamental laws. Instead, it has evolved over centuries, comprising:
- Traditions
- Customs
- Acts of Parliament
- Conventions
- Precedents
Contrast with Other Countries: Countries with written constitutions include the USA, France, and Germany.

Montesquieu's Theory: Developed by French philosopher Montesquieu, this theory states that each of the state's three key functions should be executed by separate and independent branches:
- Legislature: Makes laws (e.g., Parliament)
- Executive: Implements laws (e.g., Government)
- Judiciary: Interprets laws (e.g., Judiciary, all judges)
Objective: The purpose of this separation is to prevent tyranny and protect individual freedoms.

In the UK, powers are not strictly separated; there is a 'fusion of powers':
- The Executive (Government) is chosen from and accountable to the Legislature (Parliament).

Parliament: The UK’s legislature responsible for making laws.
- Components:
- House of Commons: Elected representatives.
- House of Lords: Appointed members.
- Monarch: The ceremonial head of state.

Government: Composed of the Cabinet, which is the political party that holds the majority in Parliament after a General Election.
- Role: Enforces laws.