Disadvantages Political Influences Law Reform Model Answer

• There are many disadvantages to the political influences contributing to law reform in the UK legal system.
• Can Be Frequent Changes in Government Personnel

  This can result in a change of tact and different issues becoming more prevalent. If the Government changes at the next election it may repeal some of the laws already passed which can be expensive. This was seen when debating the European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Act (2017) where by the Prime Minister changed from Theresa May to Boris Johnson, changing the debate and desires as to the Brexit deal.
• Unstable

  In some cases the Government may have a small majority and may have to form a coalition (i.e. to join with another party to form a government). This happened in the Coalition government of 2010 to 2015 where the Conservative and Liberal Democrats joined forces, this was not what the majority of the electorate had voted for. Both parties won't be able to pass all their manifesto promises. Manifesto promises do not always become law even though the party was elected on these promises.
• Not Fully Thought Through

  Changes can therefore be costly and open to criticism. The Government may introduce changes to the law too quickly which results in laws that are problematic or badly drafted - Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Governments are limited to the amount of parliamentary time that is available and may not be able to make all of the laws that are necessary. The Government will therefore, prioritise the reform of certain laws over others.
• Majority Rule

  With a majority, the Government can force through Laws which are unpopular, ignoring criticism from others. Governments are concerned with popularity and may not make changes to the law that are greatly needed but will not be seen by the public as essential. Currently, the Conservative party hold a majority of 354/650, giving them the power to control the debate over Laws.