Lee v Bude and Torrington Junction Railway Co

Facts

It was argued that a railway Act had been obtained by fraud on Parliament.

Issue

Could the court refuse to enforce the Act?

Held

No. Willes J said that if an Act has been obtained improperly it is for the legislature to correct it by repealing it, but while it stands the courts must obey it.

Principle

Courts are bound to apply an Act of Parliament.

Why it matters

A classic statement of parliamentary supremacy.

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