Manuel v Attorney-General

Facts

Canadian chiefs argued that the Canada Act 1982 was invalid because Canada had not properly requested and consented to it as the Statute of Westminster 1931 required.

Issue

Could the court look behind the Act's statement that Canada had consented?

Held

No. The Act stated that Canada had requested and consented, and the court would not look behind it.

Principle

The court applies the Act as enacted.

Why it matters

An example of the courts upholding parliamentary supremacy.

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