The general rules of statutory interpretation are the principles of administrative law. Statutory powers are conferred upon public authorities by numerous acts of Parliament under which public administration is carried out. Statutory duties are also imposed upon administrative authorities but they play a minor role in administration. The statutory powers confer discretion upon administrative authorities which gives rise to numerous legal problems. Besides, the acts of Parliament, there are other sources of power which do not possess statutory basis, namely, royal prerogative, corporate and contractual powers and non-legal and abnormal powers. Due to the European Union membership, the EU Law is given overriding legal force over United Kingdom law in case of conflict under the European Communities Act, 1972. The 1972 Act empowers the Crown (by Order in Council) and any designated Minister or department (by regulations) to make any alterations in the UK Law that are needed for the purpose of implementing European Community obligations or exercising Community rights subject to certain exceptions. An amendment in the Merchant Shipping Act, 1988 by Order in Council (after pronouncement by the European Court) owing to provisions contrary to European Community law, proved to be an important source of administrative power.
