Revision Notes: Fundamental Principles of UK Law

• Historical Roots: UK law is based on principles from Magna Carta, Habeas Corpus Act, and Bill of Rights of 1689 🔗.
• European Convention on Human Rights: UK contributed to the drafting and incorporated it into UK law via the Human Rights Act 1998 🔗.
• Key Rights: Includes right to life, freedom from torture, and freedom of thought and expression 🔗.
• Equal Opportunities: UK ensures no unfair treatment based on personal characteristics in life or work 🔗.

Domestic Violence, FGM, and Forced Marriage

• Domestic Violence: It's a serious crime in the UK, and victims have access to helplines and safe shelters 🔗.
• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Practicing or facilitating FGM is illegal in the UK 🔗.
• Forced Marriage: Criminal offense if one or both parties lack full and free consent; Protective measures exist 🔗.

Income Tax and National Insurance

• Income Tax: Collected from wages, pensions, and more; contributes to government services funding 🔗.
• PAYE System: Employers deduct taxes directly, while self-employed individuals use self-assessment 🔗.
• National Insurance Contributions: Pays for benefits and services; mandatory for employed and self-employed 🔗.
• Obtaining a National Insurance Number: Essential for tax and contributions, involves application process 🔗.

Requirements for Driving a Car

• Legal Requirements: Must be at least 17, pass a driving test, and have a driving licence 🔗.
• Testing: Includes theory and practical tests; licence validity extends till age 70 🔗.
• Vehicle Regulations: Vehicles must be registered, insured, and have an MOT certificate if over three years old 🔗.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which document incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law?
   a) Magna Carta
   b) Habeas Corpus Act
   c) Human Rights Act 1998
   d) Bill of Rights 1689

2. What is the age requirement to drive a car in the UK?
   a) 16 years old
   b) 17 years old
   c) 18 years old
   d) 21 years old

3. Which of the following is illegal in the UK?
   a) Forced marriage
   b) Arranged marriage
   c) Domestic partnerships
   d) Cohabitation without marriage

4. What is the system called where employers deduct tax directly from employees' wages?
   a) PAYE
   b) Self-assessment
   c) National Insurance
   d) Tax Deduct

5. What must a vehicle in the UK have if it is over three years old?
   a) MOT certificate
   b) International license
   c) Green tax disc
   d) Enhanced driver insurance

Answers:

1. c - Human Rights Act 1998
2. b - 17 years old
3. a - Forced marriage
4. a - PAYE
5. a - MOT certificate