Politics of the Judiciary - Softcover

This classic account of how the judiciary cannot act neutrally, but must act politically, now in its fifth edition

John Griffith’s controversial book has been fully revised and updated to consider the latest developments in relations between politicians and the judiciary: Michael Howard’s conflict with the judges, miscarriages of justice, the Criminal Justice Act, the increased use of Judicial Review, the effects of anti-trade union legislation of the 1980s, and so on.

‘An instant classic... it is the achievement of Professor Griffith’s book to life the debate to an altogether better level... he has, in effect, thrown down the gauntlet to any believer in the neutrality of the judiciary, or in its independence from government.’ Guardian

‘Present in detail, cogently and without hysteria, a controversial view.’ The Times

‘A stimulating and provocative study.’ TImes Educational Supplement.

J. A. G. GRIFFITH was born in 1918 and educated at Taunton School and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). He has been on the staff of the LSE since 1948, becoming Professor of English Law in 1959 and of Public Law from 1970 until his retirement in 1984. From 1956 to 1981 he edited Public Law. His books include Principles of Administrative Law (with H. Street), Central Departments and Local Authorities, Government and Law (with T. C. Hartley), Parliamentary Scrutiny of Government Bills, Public Rights and Private Interests and Parliament (with Michael Ryle).