Act of Parliament
An Act of Parliament is primary legislation enacted by the UK Parliament after a Bill completes the required legislative process and receives Royal Assent. Its provisions may commence at different times, be amended, repealed or extend to different jurisdictions. Courts interpret and apply Acts; delegated legislation can be made under authority granted by an Act. Determine the applicable version and commencement rather than assuming the title alone settles the law on a particular date.
Worked example
Parliament enacts a company-law Act empowering regulations to prescribe certain filing details. The Act provides primary legislation; regulations made under the delegated power are separate secondary legislation.
Common mistake
Assuming every provision becomes effective on Royal Assent, or treating an administrative regulation as an Act of Parliament.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | LW (ENG) | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |