Assess the Most Important Constitutional Changes Introduced in the Uk Since 1997 Essay

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New Labour came into power on May 1st 1997 and pledged to undertake the most radical shift in constitutional arrangements which would reform British constitution. Majority agree that this was a momentous period of constitutional change, arguably the most important period of constitutional change in Britain since the introduction of universal suffrage. However others think that it was too radical, too unplanned and too unfinished. By the end of its first term (1997-2001), the Balir government had enacted a substantial reform programme.

One reform introudced after 1997 was devolution. The centrepiece of Labour’s programme of constitutional reform was undoubtedly this. Referendums had been held in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
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It helped to promote diversity as it outlined equal opportunities, regardless of colour. It promoted togetherness, hence there would be equity and equality - so it introduced diversity means peace and no prejudice / discrimination or violent acts against those with different colour. It also helped vulnerable people who needed protection; it stopped them from being exploited as they knew what rights they were entitled to.
The Human Rights Act of 1998 overall was a success due to the fact that it finally guaranteed basic human right for the British people and led to a protection and recognition of individuals rights.
New Labour introduced another reform in 1999 which was A Freedom of Information Act. This act was an Act of Parliament that creates a public right to access to information held by public authorities. This can be seen as a positive aspect of the constitutional change as it prevents the government from being too secretive. The revelations about MPs' expenses would not have been available to the Daily Telegraph had the parliamentary authorities not been preparing a document for FOI release; and there have been many other disclosures that have served to highlight stories many would wish to hide – such as Princes Charles's "black spider memos" to government ministers. December 1997 the government issued a White Paper entitled ‘Your Right to Know’ which stated that ‘unnecessary secrecy in government leads to arrogance