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Overruled

Confronting Our Vanishing Democracy in 8 Cases

Sam Fowles author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oneworld Publications

Published:23rd Jun '22

Should be back in stock very soon

This hardback is available in another edition too:

Overruled cover

In Overruled, Sam Fowles exposes the troubling decline of democratic principles in Britain through his legal battles against government overreach.

In Overruled, barrister Sam Fowles provides a compelling insider perspective on the erosion of democratic principles in Britain. He recounts how the government's increasing authoritarianism has left citizens feeling powerless and disillusioned. Fowles argues that the very leaders we elect seem to have little regard for the democratic system that brought them to power, raising urgent questions about accountability and transparency in governance.

The narrative centers around pivotal moments, such as when the Prime Minister illegally prorogued Parliament, an act that prompted Fowles to join a legal team that successfully challenged this decision in court. He also highlights the shocking police response to protests, particularly the violent actions against women at a vigil for Sarah Everard. Through these events, Fowles illustrates the alarming trend of state power overshadowing individual rights and freedoms.

Overruled serves not only as a recounting of legal battles but also as a rallying cry for citizens to remain vigilant in protecting their rights. Fowles emphasizes that we should not have to resort to legal action to ensure our leaders adhere to democratic norms. At a critical moment for British democracy, this book urges readers to recognize the importance of safeguarding their freedoms and holding those in power accountable.

'Unflinching, brilliant.'

-- TLS

Overruled is a fascinating insider account of the complex and opaque British legal system, and a timely warning about the steady erosion of British democracy at the hands of unaccountable elites.’

-- Grace Blakeley, author of Stolen

‘A compelling description of a barren political landscape… This is about the power of the people rather than the people in power.’

-- Michael Mansfield QC

'[A] unique insight into what has gone wrong and how to begin the process of mending our constitution'

-- Robert Verkaik * The Times *

‘Sam Fowles has seen the way the UK constitution works – and doesn’t – up close. In this invigorating new book he brings his expertise to bear in asking whether UK democracy is in peril – and what we can do about it.’

-- Alex Dean, Prospect

‘An incisive and vigorous investigation into how excessive executive power threatens democracy by sidestepping accountability and scrutiny. Enlivened by historical and courtroom anecdotes, this exploration of our unwritten constitution is easily accessible to all.’

-- Owen Bowcott, former legal affairs correspondent at the Guardian

ISBN: 9780861542475

Dimensions: 216mm x 135mm x 23mm

Weight: unknown

256 pages