22-APR-1991 17:16

CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS BR

852 840 1976

P.03

Delegation

is

to

some different

autno

ity

with

the few

Another matter. In accordnance general principle, and witn available authorities, it seems safe to

Parliament expresses presume that unless

"

or implies a dispensation, legislative power must be exercised by those to whom it is given, anu not by Duriter delegates. But this presumption is

to circumstances, and may

subject

be

greatly weakened in time of emergency.".

+

in

found

lawfully so

Insofar

as

I do not think that the general principles are doubt. I have to be satisfied that the Article XIV power of appointment in respect of magistrates (whom I have are included within the phrase public officers") is

has that the Governor delegable and if so, delegated these powers to the Chief Justice. reliance has been placed upon section 5 of the Magistrates Ordinance, I have to consider the relationship of the

therein contained with the powers granted powers Sovereign to the Governor undez Article XIV of Patent.

by the the Letters

The Carltona Principle

opservations of Lord Greene, 'Commissioner of Works

This principle is

is derived from certain

.R. in Carltona v. [1943] 2 AER 500 where at p.

563 he

4

said;

in

each casƏ,

the

"It cannot be supposed that this reyulation meant that, minister in person shoula direct nis mind to the matter. The duties imposed upon ministers and the powers given to ministers are normally, exercised under the authority. of the ministers by responsible officials of

"

+

the

dapartment. Public business could not be carried an if that were not the case. Constitutionally, the decision of such an official.is. of course, the decision of the minister. The minister is responsible. It is he who must ansver before Parliament for anything

tnat

officials have done under his

authority:

·

w

The principle

IP

is not in reality one of uele

ST'd

0190 698 ES8

09H

22:21

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