British Citizenship Test

What must the government, public bodies, and courts follow?

1. British Constitution

2. Common Law

3. European Convention principles

4. Decrees of the Parliament

The correct answer is: European Convention principles

The correct answer is that the government, public bodies, and courts must follow the principles established by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This convention is pivotal in ensuring that human rights are protected across its member states, including the UK. As part of the UK’s commitment to the European Convention, public authorities must act in compliance with the rights set out in the convention. This means that when making decisions or drafting legislation, they are required to respect and protect the rights outlined in the ECHR, such as the right to a fair trial, the right to privacy, and freedom from discrimination. Courts also use the principles of the European Convention as a reference point to assess whether the actions of the government and public bodies comply with these human rights standards. While the British Constitution, Common Law, and decrees of Parliament play significant roles in the legal system and governance of the UK, the specific requirement for adherence to the principles of the European Convention is a key element that mandates how the government and its institutions uphold the rights of individuals.