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Chapter 5: The UK Government, the Law, and Your Role

The Human Rights Act 1998

UK law that incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights into British law, guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms.

4 min read
Exam Topic
Based on official handbook (3rd edition)

Key Facts

Year
1998
Based on
European Convention on Human Rights
Key rights
Life, liberty, fair trial, free speech
Applies to
Public bodies and courts

The Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA) brought the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law. It means people can enforce their fundamental rights in UK courts.

Key Rights Protected

Absolute Rights (cannot be limited) - Right to life - Freedom from torture and inhuman treatment - Freedom from slavery

Limited Rights (can be restricted in specific circumstances) - Right to liberty - Right to a fair trial - Right to privacy and family life - Freedom of thought, conscience, and religion - Freedom of expression - Freedom of assembly and association - Right to marry and found a family - Right to education - Right to free elections - Protection from discrimination

How It Works

  • UK courts must interpret laws to be compatible with Convention rights
  • Public bodies must respect human rights
  • People can take legal action if their rights are violated
  • Cases can ultimately go to the European Court of Human Rights

Practical Examples

The HRA protects: - Journalists' right to report freely - Families' right to stay together - Individuals' right to privacy - Fair treatment by police and courts - Freedom to practice religion

Responsibilities

Rights come with responsibilities: - You must respect others' rights - Rights can be limited to protect others - Rights must be balanced against public interest

📝Why This Appears on the Test

Know the Human Rights Act protects fundamental rights like free speech and fair trial.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Confusing with the Equality Act
  • Thinking rights are unlimited
  • Not knowing about the European Court of Human Rights

The Human Rights Act 1998 FAQ

Related Topics to Study

The Equality Act 2010

UK law that protects people from discrimination based on nine "protected characteristics" including age, race, sex, and disability.

The Rule of Law

The principle that everyone in the UK, including the government, must obey the law. No one is above the law, and everyone is equal before it.

British Values

The fundamental values that define British society: democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance.

This content is based on the official "Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents" (3rd edition) published by the UK Home Office. Content is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure accuracy. For the most current test requirements, always check the official GOV.UK website.

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5 official handbook chapters

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