The United Kingdom constitution – a mapping exercise
A briefing paper which "maps" (or summarises) the main elements of the United Kingdom's uncodified constitution.
How is a new Archbishop of Canterbury chosen?
A new Archbishop of Canterbury will be appointed following the resignation of Justin Welby on 12 November 2024. Timings are yet to be confirmed.
Devolution in Northern Ireland
A briefing on devolution in Northern Ireland
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Research Briefing
Devolution in Scotland: “The settled will”?
A briefing paper on the devolution settlement in Scotland
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Insight
The King of Australia
The King is head of state in Australia as well as the UK. He also is Head of the Commonwealth. He will visit Australia with the Queen in October 2024.
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Insight
Magna Carta: Does it still matter?
Only three clauses of the Magna Carta remain in force: two apply to institutions, not individuals, and the third has mostly been superseded by other laws.
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Research Briefing
Cost of a bank holiday
The latest government estimate is that an additional bank holiday would cost the economy £2.4 billion.
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Research Briefing
Scottish independence referendum: legal issues
A briefing paper on the legal issues surrounding a Scottish independence referendum
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Research Briefing
Finances of the Monarchy
A research briefing on the Finances of the Monarchy, including the Sovereign Grant, Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall and tax arrangements for members of the Royal Family.
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Research Briefing
State Opening of Parliament – history and ceremonial
A briefing paper on the State Opening of Parliament, its history and ceremonial
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Insight
What is the King’s Speech?
The King’s Speech sets out the government’s legislative agenda for the following parliamentary session. It can be delivered by the Monarch in person or by someone acting on their behalf.
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Research Briefing
The Crown Dependencies
A briefing paper on the constitutional status of the Crown Dependencies, which are the Bailiwick of Jersey, the Bailiwick of Guernsey (including Alderney and Sark) and the Isle of Man.
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Research Briefing
The office and role of Speaker
A research briefing on the office and role of the Speaker of the House of Commons
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Research Briefing
The royal prerogative and ministerial advice
A briefing paper on the royal prerogative and ministerial advice to the Crown on both the prerogative and statutory public appointments
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Research Briefing
The Privy Council: history, functions and membership
A briefing paper on the history, functions and membership of the Privy Council
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