A Level Law Practice Exam

What does the purposive approach in statutory interpretation require?

1. Strict adherence to the wording of the statute

2. Courts to determine the general purpose of Parliament

3. Judges to ignore any legislative intent

4. Focus solely on case law

The correct answer is: Courts to determine the general purpose of Parliament

The purposive approach in statutory interpretation requires the courts to determine the general purpose of Parliament when interpreting legislation. This approach goes beyond the strict literal meaning of the words in the statute. Instead, it seeks to understand the intention behind the legislation, aiming to fulfill the objectives that Parliament sought to achieve when enacting the law. By focusing on the purpose, judges can apply the law in a manner that aligns with its intended effect, allowing for a more flexible interpretation that can adapt to various circumstances. This method is particularly useful in cases where the application of the statute may not be clear-cut or may lead to results that contradict the original intention of the lawmakers. In contrast, the other choices highlight approaches that do not align with the purposive method. Strict adherence to the wording of the statute would signify a literal interpretation, which does not consider legislative intent. Ignoring legislative intent directly contradicts the essence of the purposive approach, which is built on recognizing and applying Parliament's intent. Focusing solely on case law would also detract from considering the statute's purpose, as it would prioritize precedent over the objectives of the legislation itself. Thus, the necessity of judicial consideration of Parliament's broader intentions firmly supports the selection of the purposive approach.