The 1970s era of rapid change, economic and social, made constant demands on the adaptability of a constitutional system. Originally published in 1974, this book identifies the changes in constitutional practice which had taken place in the previous two decades, and the trends which could be discerned at the time.

Preface. 1. Introduction Part I 2. The Central Executive Power 3. Appointment of the Prime Minister 4. Ministerial and Minor Offices 5. The Office of Deputy-Prime Minister 6. The Appointment and Choice of Ministers 7. The Cabinet and Prime Ministerial Government 8. Ministerial Responsibility 9. The Administration 10. The Opposition Part II 11. Parliament in the Constitution 12. The Rules of the House of Commons 13. The House of Commons Today 14. The Constitution and the People's Money 15. The Legislative Process 16. The Commons and the Executive 17. Parliament: Conclusion 18. The House of Lords Part III 19. Elections Part IV 20. Regions and Local Government 21. Local Government 22. Britain and the EEC 23. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index.