With the greatest respect, we do not make the criminal law…
“With the greatest respect, we do not make the criminal law on the basis of opinion polls. A majority of 9:1 could be in favour of a ban in my constituency, but I would not regard that as conclusive, and I hope that we never would. If we start having opinion polls about all the unpleasant and distasteful habits and customs of some members of society, and suggesting that their findings should be made part of the criminal law, foxhunting would come way down the list, and quite a lot of strange enactments would have to go through the House.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Law should be based on principle and evidence, not majority opinion or polls.
In simple terms: Legal decisions need solid justification, not popular vote.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize rule of law over fleeting public sentiment.
Themes
law
democracy
public opinion
legislation
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parliamentary debate
- law reform
- public policy
- ethical governance
Key Concepts
rule of law
principle
evidence
policy making
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we protect minority rights when majority opinion is strong?
- What safeguards ensure laws are evidence‑based?
A Different Perspective
Popular opinion can be volatile and may not reflect minority rights.