Author: Dom Watts

The Malicious Communications Act 1988 is a law in the United Kingdom that makes it illegal to send threatening, abusive, or offensive messages to others. The act was introduced in response to growing concerns about the rise of online harassment and abuse, and was designed to provide law enforcement with the tools they need to prosecute those who engage in such behaviour.

Section 1 of the Malicious Communications Act 1988 makes it an offense to send a message that is “indecent or grossly offensive,” “threatening,” or “false” with the intent to cause distress or anxiety to the recipient. This includes messages sent through social media, text messages, emails, and other electronic communications.

Section 1A of the act was added in 2015, and makes it an offense to send a communication that is “grossly offensive” or “of an indecent, obscene or menacing character” with the intent to cause “distress or anxiety” to the recipient, or with the knowledge that it is likely to do so.

The act was also amended in 2020 and 2022.

The act also includes provisions that allow law enforcement to seize and search electronic devices, such as computers and smartphones, if they believe they contain evidence related to a malicious communications offense.

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the use of social media and other online platforms to harass and abuse others.

The CPS publish guidance Social Media and other Electronic Communications

The Malicious Communications Act 1988 has been used to prosecute a number of high-profile cases, including the case of Isabella Sorley and John Nimmo, who were both sentenced to jail time in 2014 for sending abusive tweets to feminist campaigner Caroline Criado-Perez.

Critics of the act have argued that it is too broad and could be used to stifle free speech. They also argue that the act is often used to prosecute individuals for relatively minor offenses, such as sending offensive jokes or memes, rather than more serious cases of harassment and abuse.

Despite these criticisms, the act remains an important tool for law enforcement in the fight against online harassment and abuse. It sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and provides a legal framework for prosecuting those who engage in it.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of online harassment or abuse, it is important to report the incident to the police or to a trusted authority.

You can also find resources and support from organizations such as the National Stalking Helpline, the Cyber Helpline, and the Revenge Porn Helpline.

In conclusion, the Malicious Communications Act 1988 is a vital piece of legislation that helps to protect individuals from online harassment and abuse. While there are valid concerns about its potential impact on free speech, it remains an important tool for law enforcement in the fight against malicious communications.

The gov.uk website has various help and guidance on Crime, justice and the law.

Check out our articles on What is Stalking and Harassment, What is the Law ?, Sent an Email to the Wrong Person ? and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession or any law enforcement agencies.

Most Popular ↓

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles ↓

• 
  What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
  Forensic science is a cornerstone of modern criminal justice, providing critical evidence that can make or break a case. However, the reliability and accuracy of… Read more: What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
• 
  What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
  The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) stands as a vital institution within the criminal justice system, dedicated to investigating potential miscarriages of justice. Established in… Read more: What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
• 
  Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
  The performance by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury 2025, where frontman Bobby Vylan (reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster) led chants of “death, death to the IDF” and “from… Read more: Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
• 
  Police Public Confidence and Engagement
  The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) undertake regular surveys to assess the public’s perceptions of the police, as well as their confidence in the… Read more: Police Public Confidence and Engagement

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

Byelaws play a crucial role in regulating various aspects of society in the United Kingdom. Byelaws are made by local authorities and public bodies, including some private companies or charities, to address specific issues that are not covered by national legislation. Byelaws are made using powers granted by the relevant Act of Parliament.

A byelaw cannot be made where alternative legislative measures already exist that could be used to address the problem. Byelaws should always be proportionate and reasonable. Where a byelaw is no longer necessary, it should be revoked.

Local government legislation: byelaws – gov.uk

Byelaws govern a wide range of areas, from public behaviour to the use of public spaces.

Byelaws are generally accompanied by some sanction or penalty for their non-observance that can be prosecuted in magistrates’ courts or Justice of the Peace Courts in Scotland.

History of Byelaws in the UK

The origins of byelaws can be traced back to medieval England when local communities enacted regulations to govern their own affairs. These early byelaws covered aspects such as public health, trade, and public order. However, it was not until the 19th century that byelaws began to be widely recognized and authorized by legislation.

The Municipal Corporations Act of 1835 was a significant milestone in the development of byelaws in the UK. It granted municipal corporations the power to make byelaws for the “good rule and government” of their respective boroughs. This act paved the way for local authorities to pass regulations on matters like public nuisances, street trading, and the management of public spaces.

Since then, numerous acts of Parliament have expanded the scope of byelaw-making powers for different bodies. Notable examples include the Public Health Act 1875, which empowered local authorities to create byelaws concerning sanitation and public health, and the Road Traffic Act 1988, which enabled local authorities to regulate parking and traffic through byelaws.

Legislation

The Local Government Act 1972  was made in respect of local government and the functions of local authorities in England and Wales. It includes the “Power of councils to make byelaws for good rule and government and suppression of nuisances”.

The Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 includes “Byelaws for good rule and government”.

The Local Government Byelaws (Wales) Act 2012 “reforms procedures for making byelaws in Wales, including removing a requirement for confirmation of byelaws by the Welsh Minister”.

The Byelaws (Alternative Procedure) (England) Regulations 2016 introduce new arrangements for byelaws by simplifying the procedures for making new byelaws and amending byelaws.

Types of Byelaws

Byelaws in the UK can be categorised into different sections based on their subject matter. Some common areas covered by byelaws include :-

1. Public Order and Safety: Byelaws in this category govern public behavior and conduct to maintain order and safety. They may include regulations on alcohol consumption in public places, restrictions on public gatherings, and rules regarding the use of fireworks.
2. Public Spaces: Byelaws related to public spaces cover issues such as the use of parks, beaches, and open spaces. They may address activities like dog walking, cycling, barbecues, and the prohibition of certain activities in designated areas.
3. Environmental Protection: Byelaws aimed at environmental protection focus on preventing pollution, preserving natural habitats, and promoting sustainable practices. They may cover topics such as waste management, noise pollution, and the protection of wildlife.
4. Public Transport: Byelaws in this category pertain to public transport services, including buses, trains, trams, and ferries. They often define rules for passenger behaviour, ticketing, and the use of facilities.
5. Trading and Licensing: Byelaws concerning trading and licensing govern various commercial activities. They may regulate street trading, markets, licensing of premises for specific purposes, and the sale of goods in public spaces.
6. Health and Sanitation: Byelaws addressing health and sanitation focus on maintaining public health standards. They may cover topics like food hygiene, public toilets, pest control, and the prevention of infectious diseases.

Significance of Byelaws in the UK

Byelaws play a crucial role in complementing national legislation by addressing local issues and concerns. They provide local authorities and public bodies with the flexibility to regulate matters that are specific to their regions. Byelaws also enable communities to uphold public order, protect the environment, and ensure the well-being of residents and visitors.

Furthermore, byelaws encourage civic engagement and local democracy, as they often involve public consultations and input from community members. They provide an opportunity for individuals and organizations to influence the rules and regulations that govern their immediate surroundings.

Byelaws in the UK have a rich history and continue to be an essential part of the legal framework in the country. They serve as a means for local authorities and public bodies to address specific issues and regulate various aspects of society.

Byelaws help maintain public order, protect the environment, and ensure the well-being of communities throughout the United Kingdom.

If you have arrived at the Ministry of Injustice from https://btppolice.uk (a MOI domain) you may well have been looking for https://btp.police.uk which is the official website for British Transport Police.

For the avoidance of doubt this website is not run by British Transport Police nor is it associated in any way with British Transport Police.

Call 999 if:

• a serious offence is in progress or has just been committed
• someone is in immediate danger or harm
• property is in danger of being damaged
• a serious disruption to the public is likely

Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries. You can also Report a Crime online.

You may also be interested in our articles on What is the Law ? and It’s the Law.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession or any law enforcement agencies.

Most Popular ↓

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles ↓

• 
  What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
  Forensic science is a cornerstone of modern criminal justice, providing critical evidence that can make or break a case. However, the reliability and accuracy of… Read more: What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
• 
  What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
  The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) stands as a vital institution within the criminal justice system, dedicated to investigating potential miscarriages of justice. Established in… Read more: What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
• 
  Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
  The performance by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury 2025, where frontman Bobby Vylan (reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster) led chants of “death, death to the IDF” and “from… Read more: Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
• 
  Police Public Confidence and Engagement
  The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) undertake regular surveys to assess the public’s perceptions of the police, as well as their confidence in the… Read more: Police Public Confidence and Engagement

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

A Crown Servant, in the United Kingdom, is an individual who is employed by the Crown or works within the civil service of the government.

The term “Crown servant” is not used in Scotland, where the equivalent term is “public servant”.

Crown Servants encompass a diverse range of professionals. They work across different government departments and agencies, contributing their expertise and skills to the functioning of the state.

Here are some examples of crown servants :-

• Civil servants: Civil servants are employed by the government to carry out a variety of tasks, such as running government departments, providing public services, and advising ministers.
• Police officers: Police officers are employed by the government to uphold the law and protect the public.
• Members of the armed forces: Members of the armed forces are employed by the government to defend the country from attack.
• Judges: Judges are employed by the government to preside over court cases.
• Crown prosecutors: Crown prosecutors are employed by the government to prosecute criminal cases.
• Diplomats: Diplomats are crown servants, and they represent the UK on the international stage. They negotiate treaties, build relationships with other countries, and promote UK interests abroad.

It’s important to note that although judges are employed by the government, they are separate from the executive branch of government, which includes the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and other government officials. This separation of powers helps to safeguard the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.

One of the fundamental principles guiding the work of Crown Servants is their commitment to impartiality.

They are expected to perform their duties without bias or favouritism, treating all individuals and groups fairly and equitably. This principle of impartiality ensures that government decisions are made in the best interest of the public rather than personal or political interests.

Integrity is another core value upheld by Crown Servants.

They are expected to act ethically, demonstrating honesty, transparency, and accountability in their work. Maintaining the public’s trust is of utmost importance, and Crown Servants must adhere to high standards of conduct and behaviour.

Crown Servants serve at the pleasure of the Crown.

This means their employment can be terminated at the discretion of the Crown or its representatives. This authority provides flexibility in the management of the civil service, allowing the government to ensure that Crown Servants remain aligned with the goals and objectives of the administration.

The principle of Crown servants serving at the pleasure of the Crown is based on the idea that the Crown is the ultimate source of authority in the UK. This principle dates back to the days of absolute monarchy, when the King or Queen had absolute power over their subjects.

Although the UK is now a constitutional monarchy, the principle of Crown servants serving “at the pleasure of the Crown” has been retained.

Some people argue that serving at the pleasure of the Crown is an outdated and undemocratic principle that gives the government too much power. Others argue that it is an essential principle that helps to ensure the stability of the government and the country.

Crown Servants are expected to be politically neutral in their roles.

This ensures that their decisions and actions are not influenced by personal political beliefs. It is important to note that Crown Servants are distinct from political appointees or ministers who are chosen by the government

The role of Crown Servants in the United Kingdom is crucial in maintaining stability, efficiency, and continuity in the governance of the country.

Crown servants work tirelessly behind the scenes, implementing legislation, managing public services, providing legal advice, conducting diplomacy, and upholding law and order.

Crown servants provide impartial advice and support to government ministers, so that they can deliver public services in a fair and impartial way.

The UK has a long and proud tradition of public service, and Crown servants play a vital role in upholding this tradition.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession or any law enforcement agencies.

Most Popular ↓

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles ↓

• 
  What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
  Forensic science is a cornerstone of modern criminal justice, providing critical evidence that can make or break a case. However, the reliability and accuracy of… Read more: What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
• 
  What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
  The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) stands as a vital institution within the criminal justice system, dedicated to investigating potential miscarriages of justice. Established in… Read more: What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
• 
  Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
  The performance by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury 2025, where frontman Bobby Vylan (reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster) led chants of “death, death to the IDF” and “from… Read more: Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
• 
  Police Public Confidence and Engagement
  The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) undertake regular surveys to assess the public’s perceptions of the police, as well as their confidence in the… Read more: Police Public Confidence and Engagement

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.

The Statute of Limitations in the United Kingdom (UK) establishes time limits within which legal actions can be brought against individuals or entities for various offenses.

These limitations aim to strike a balance between the interests of justice and the need for legal certainty.

In the UK, each jurisdiction—England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland—has its own legislation governing limitation periods.

This article explores the key aspects of the Statute of Limitations in each jurisdiction, including time limits for offenses and exceptions.

Limitation Act 1980

The Limitation Act 1980 is a piece of legislation that governs the time limits within which legal actions can be brought for civil claims in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

It provides a framework for determining when a claim becomes “time-barred” or statute-barred, meaning that it cannot be pursued in court after a certain period has elapsed.

The key provisions of the Limitation Act 1980 include:

1. General Limitation Period: Section 2 of the Act establishes a general limitation period of six years from the date the cause of action arises for most civil claims. This includes claims for breach of contract, personal injury, and negligence.
2. Personal Injury Claims: Section 11 of the Act sets a specific limitation period of three years for personal injury claims arising from negligence, nuisance, or breach of duty. The three-year period usually begins from the date the injury occurred or from the date the injured party became aware of the injury.
3. Latent Damage: Section 14A of the Act addresses claims for latent damage, where the injury or damage may not be immediately apparent. It allows for an extended limitation period of either three years from the date of knowledge or 15 years from the date of the negligent act or omission, whichever occurs first.
4. Actions to Recover Land: Section 15 of the Act deals with actions to recover land, setting a limitation period of 12 years. This means that legal action to reclaim land or property must be initiated within 12 years from the date the right of action arose.
5. Contracts and Specialty Debts: Section 5 of the Act establishes a six-year limitation period for actions founded on simple contracts or specialty debts. This includes debts arising from written agreements or deeds.

It is important to note that the Limitation Act 1980 does not apply to criminal offenses, which have separate rules and time limits for prosecution.

In the case of criminal acts, there are no statutory limits on the prosecution of crimes in the UK except for ‘summary’ offences (offences which are tried in the magistrates’ court). In these cases, criminal proceedings must be brought within 6 months. The Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980 (MCA 1980) applies.

There is no time limit for prosecution in England and Wales, including indictable crimes such as murder, manslaughter, war crimes and drug dealing offences.

Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973

The Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973 governs limitation periods for civil and criminal matters in Scotland.

1. Time Limits for Offenses:
   • Section 6 of the Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973 establishes a five-year limitation period for most personal injury claims, contracts, and torts.
   • The limitation period for actions based on a right to recover land is 20 years from the date the right of action accrued.

Serious offenses such as murder, rape, and treason generally do not have a time limit for prosecution and can be brought forward at any time.

The Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 sets out the procedures and powers of the lower courts in Scotland, which include the Justice of the Peace Courts and Sheriff Courts. The Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 outlines the jurisdiction, powers, and functions of these courts, as well as the procedures for criminal cases in Scotland.

The Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989

The Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 provides the framework for limitation periods for civil claims in Northern Ireland.

1. Time Limits for Offenses:
   • Section 6 of the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 sets a general limitation period of six years for most civil claims, including contract disputes and personal injury cases.
   • Actions to recover land have a limitation period of 12 years.

The Magistrates’ Courts (Northern Ireland) Order 1981. This order sets out the powers, procedures, and jurisdiction of the magistrates’ courts in Northern Ireland. It governs the operation of these courts and provides the legal framework for their functions and processes.

The Statute of Limitations in the UK varies across its jurisdictions. The Limitation Act 1980 applies to England and Wales, the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973 governs limitation periods in Scotland and the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 sets the framework for Northern Ireland.

Check out our articles on Solicitors, Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), Solicitors from Hell, Barristers, Direct Access Barristers, Bar Standards Board, Bar Council, Law Society, Legal Services Board, Rule of Law and the highly questionable Sussex Family Justice Board.

The Ministry of Injustice is not the Ministry of Justice nor is it affiliated in any way with the justice system, legal profession or any law enforcement agencies.

Most Popular ↓

What is Policing by Consent ? What is Two Tier Policing ?

Latest Articles ↓

• 
  What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
  Forensic science is a cornerstone of modern criminal justice, providing critical evidence that can make or break a case. However, the reliability and accuracy of… Read more: What is the Forensic Science Regulator ?
• 
  What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
  The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) stands as a vital institution within the criminal justice system, dedicated to investigating potential miscarriages of justice. Established in… Read more: What is the Criminal Cases Review Commission ?
• 
  Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
  The performance by Bob Vylan at Glastonbury 2025, where frontman Bobby Vylan (reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster) led chants of “death, death to the IDF” and “from… Read more: Did Bobby Vylan and the BBC break the law at Glastonbury 2025 ?
• 
  Police Public Confidence and Engagement
  The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) undertake regular surveys to assess the public’s perceptions of the police, as well as their confidence in the… Read more: Police Public Confidence and Engagement

All Articles can be found in the Legal Blog or Sitemap.

You should always seek formal legal advice from a qualified and reputable lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

‘Justice delayed is justice denied’

 William Ewart Gladstone

There are a number of links to Free and Paid For Legal Resources and Legal Organisations on the Free Legal Advice , Legal Aid and Pro Bono pages.