UK Laws

The UK’s legal system, including criminal and civil laws, the role of the police, citizens’ responsibilities, and measures against terrorism and extremism.

Respecting the Law

In the UK, everyone must know and obey the law.
Britain welcomes people from many backgrounds, but all residents must follow UK laws, even if some actions are legal elsewhere.
Those who do not respect the law may lose the chance to become permanent residents.

The law affects every part of life — from personal behaviour to business matters. It is your duty to understand the laws that apply to your daily life.

The Law in the UK

In the UK, everyone is treated equally under the law, no matter who they are or where they come from.
There are two main types of law: criminal law and civil law.

Criminal Law

Deals with crimes investigated by the police or other authorities.
Crimes are punished by the courts.

Civil Law

Settles disputes between individuals or groups.

Examples of Criminal Laws

  • Carrying a weapon – Illegal to carry weapons of any kind, even for self-defence. This includes guns, knives, or anything made to cause harm.
  • Drugs – Buying or selling heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, or cannabis is illegal.
  • Racial crime – It is a crime to harass or harm someone because of their religion or ethnic origin.
  • Selling tobacco – You cannot sell tobacco products to anyone under 18.
  • Smoking in public – It is illegal to smoke in most enclosed public places.
  • Buying alcohol – You cannot sell or buy alcohol for people under 18.
    • Exception: Those 16 or older may drink alcohol with a meal in a restaurant or hotel.
  • Drinking in public – Some areas are alcohol-free zones. The police can take alcohol away or move people on. Fines or arrests may follow.

Other serious crimes, like murder, theft, and assault, also apply.
More information is available at www.gov.uk.

Examples of Civil Laws

  • Housing law – Disputes between landlords and tenants, e.g. over repairs or eviction.
  • Consumer rights – Problems with faulty goods or bad services.
  • Employment law – Cases about wages, unfair dismissal, or discrimination.
  • Debt – People can be taken to court if they owe money.

The Police and Their Duties

The police in the UK aim to:

  • Protect life and property
  • Keep the peace
  • Prevent and detect crime
Police Officiers in the UK
Source: Wikipedia

The UK has separate police forces, each led by a Chief Constable.
They are independent of the government.

In November 2012, Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) were first elected in England and Wales.
They ensure the local police work effectively and efficiently, set priorities, manage budgets, and appoint Chief Constables.

Police officers serve everyone equally, regardless of background or location.
They must obey the law, avoid abuse of power, and not be rude, abusive, or discriminatory.
If they misuse their authority, they face serious punishment.

Police are supported by Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), who:

  • Patrol the streets
  • Work with the public
  • Assist at crime scenes and major events

Everyone in the UK should help the police prevent and solve crimes.
If arrested, the police will tell you the reason and you have the right to legal advice.

If you have a complaint about the police, you can:

Terrorism and Extremism

The UK faces threats from terrorism, including groups like Al Qa’ida and its affiliates, and Northern Ireland-related terrorism.
These groups may try to radicalise and recruit people.
Although public support for them is very low, everyone living in the UK should be aware of the threat.

It is vital that all citizens feel safe — free from terrorism and all kinds of extremism, such as religious or far-right extremism.

If you believe someone is trying to persuade you to join an extremist or terrorist group, contact your local police immediately.

Key Points

  • Everyone in the UK must know and obey the law.
  • The law treats all people equally.
  • Two main types of law: criminal and civil.
  • Examples of criminal laws include weapon possession, drugs, tobacco, and alcohol regulations.
  • Examples of civil laws include housing, employment, and consumer disputes.
  • Police protect the public, prevent crime, and are independent of government.
  • Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) oversee local police in England and Wales.
  • PCSOs assist police in community work.
  • People can complain about the police through official channels.
  • The UK faces terrorist threats, mainly from Al Qa’ida and Northern Ireland-related terrorism.
  • Everyone should report extremism or terrorist recruitment attempts to the police.
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