Used to discover the plain, ordinary meaning of a word at the time the Act was passed. Example, DPP v Cheeseman.
What is Hansard?
The report on debates in Parliament during the progress of a Bill. Since Pepper v Hart the courts have been allowed to refer to Hansard in order to discover Parliament's intention.
What are Law Commission Reports?
led to the passing of the Act. For example, the Coroners and Justice Act2009
What is the EU law?
Influenced judges to adopt a purposive approach when interpreting statutes.
What is Precedent?
Case law appropriate to the area of law.
Explain the Human Rights Act 1978
Judges must, as far as possible, interpret the Acts of Parliament so they are consistent with Human Rights.
Explain the interpretation Act 1978
Gives some statutory guidance. For example, "he" will always be "she" and singular will always include plural.
Explain academic textbooks
For example, in Dunlop v Selfridge, the court adopted the definition of "consideration" in contract law by their academic Pollock.
