Wednesbury

The Wednesbury principle refers to a legal standard used by courts to review decisions made by public authorities. It holds that a decision is unlawful if it is so unreasonable or irrational that no responsible authority could have made it. Essentially, it ensures that public decisions are rational and fair, preventing arbitrary or capricious actions. Courts do not second-guess the merits of the decision but only check whether it was made within a reasonable boundary of discretion. Named after a case in Wednesbury, England, this principle helps maintain lawful, transparent governance.