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United Kingdom Leading Case improper purpose and relevant considerations

Laker Airways Ltd v Department of Trade

[1977] QB 643
JurisdictionUnited Kingdom
CourtEngland and Wales Court of Appeal (Civil Division)
Year1977
StatusBinding authority

Summary

Statutory powers used for an improper purpose are reviewable on the principle of legality.

Key Principle

A statutory power exercised for an improper purpose — here, to frustrate a licensee operating under a parallel scheme — is reviewable and may be set aside.

Area of Law

Public Law

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