Unicameralism in New Zealand: Some Lessons

14 Pages Posted: 30 May 2013 Last revised: 4 Apr 2016

See all articles by Robin Cooke (1926-2006)

Robin Cooke (1926-2006)

Victoria University of Wellington - Faculty of Law

Date Written: May 22, 1998

Abstract

This is a revised version of a paper delivered by Lord Cooke at a seminar in All Souls College, Oxford on 22 May 1998 on the topic of New Zealand’s experience of unicameralism. He begins by outlining the historical development of New Zealand’s Parliament, focussing on the establishment of the Legislative Council (as a second chamber) in 1852, its operation, and ultimate abolition in 1951. Lord Cooke then critiques various proposals for an alternative second chamber. Lord Cooke emphasises the difficulty of finding a practical solution that achieves all relevant political goals. From New Zealand’s experience, Lord Cooke offers five lessons for the proposals to reform the United Kingdom House of Lords and sketches his view of an ideal House of Lords. Abstract by Elizabeth Chan.

Keywords: Lord Cooke, unicameralism, bicameralism, Legislative Council, United Kingdom, House of Lords, House of Representatives, second chamber

JEL Classification: K40

Suggested Citation

Cooke, Robin, Unicameralism in New Zealand: Some Lessons (May 22, 1998). (1999) 7 Cant L Rev 233, Victoria University of Wellington Legal Research Paper Series Cooke Paper No. 15/2016, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2271440

Robin Cooke (Contact Author)

Victoria University of Wellington - Faculty of Law ( email )

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