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What does an official record of parliamentary debate, known as Hansard, aid with in legal interpretation?

  1. Understanding the intent behind legislation

  2. Providing a historical context of laws

  3. Establishing the popularity of statutes

  4. Revising outdated laws

The correct answer is: Understanding the intent behind legislation

Hansard serves a crucial role in legal interpretation by helping to uncover the intent behind legislation. When courts are tasked with interpreting statutes, they often look for the purpose that lawmakers had in mind when they drafted and passed the laws. Hansard captures the debates and discussions that occur in Parliament, which can reveal insights into the intentions and objectives of legislators. By examining the relevant excerpts from Hansard, legal practitioners can gain a clearer understanding of why a particular piece of legislation was enacted, including the specific issues it aimed to address. This knowledge can be pivotal in resolving ambiguities in the law and in ensuring that judicial decisions align with legislative intent.