Understanding Administrative Law Definition

Administrative Law is a branch of public law that governs the activities of administrative agencies of government. It focuses on the procedures and rules that these agencies must follow when making decisions and implementing policies.

Administrative Law: Powers, Limits, and Control

The question asks about a specific definition of Administrative Law attributed to a notable figure. This definition breaks down the subject into three core components:

• Administrative Powers: The specific authorities and functions exercised by government bodies and officials.
• Limits of Powers: The legal and constitutional boundaries that restrict how these administrative powers can be used. This ensures that power is not abused.
• Control Mechanisms: The methods and ways employed to ensure that the administration acts within its designated powers and limits. This involves checks and balances, judicial review, and other accountability measures.

Attributing the Definition

This comprehensive definition, highlighting the interplay between administrative powers, their inherent limitations, and the mechanisms for maintaining oversight, is widely attributed to:

Sir Ivor Jennings was a prominent constitutional lawyer and academic who made significant contributions to the study of constitutional and administrative law, particularly in the context of the British Commonwealth.

Key Components Explained

To understand administrative law better, consider these points based on the definition:

• Focus on Administration: It's about how the executive part of the government functions.
• Rule of Law: It ensures that the administration operates under the law, not above it.
• Accountability: It provides ways to hold administrative bodies accountable for their actions.

Therefore, the definition provided in the question accurately reflects the scope and purpose of Administrative Law as conceptualized by Ivor Jennings.