Opinion: is the UK moving towards government by decree?

Synopsis

The United Kingdom is currently facing concerns about moving towards government by decree, a situation where laws can be enacted simply through government announcements. This concept is rooted in British history, particularly during the personal rule of Charles I. The evolution of Parliament's role, especially after the civil wars and the events of 1688 and 1689, transformed it into a significant constitutional body. The doctrine of parliamentary sovereignty, formulated by AV Dicey, asserts that Parliament can create or repeal any law, but this poses risks in a system where a government holds a large majority. Historical figures like Lord Hewart and Lord Hailsham have warned about the dangers of an elective dictatorship, highlighting the potential for a government to dominate Parliament and operate without checks. These discussions raise critical questions about the future of governance in the United Kingdom and the implications of such a shift towards unilateral decision-making.