You could
argue that every UK citizen is aware of our main laws, and what is and isn’t
illegal. It’s pretty clear where the laws stand surrounding drugs, violence or
theft, but what about some of the more unusual laws which are technically still
in play? Although it’s unlikely that any of these situations would occur, let
alone the chances of anybody upholding the laws, there are many unusual UK laws
that are interesting to read about.
From laws
about where and when you can drink alcohol, to a medieval law that’s still in
place, see below for five of our favourite laws that still exist in the UK
today.
MP’s cannot wear armour in parliament
One of the
oldest laws still in effect, MPs have been forbidden to don armour in
parliament since 1313. Known as the Statute Forbidding Bearing of Armour, this
law was established during the reign of Edward II during a period of particular
political turmoil. As you might expect, no-one has been prosecuted in recent
times, although the Crown Prosecution Service has stated that anyone wearing
armour in Parliament would be reported to the police.
It’s illegal to be drunk while in charge of a
horse
This law
came into effect under the Licensing Act in 1872, and the full law states that
it’s illegal to be drunk while in charge of a horse, cow, carriage or steam
engine. Anyone found breaking this law can technically be subjected to either a
prison sentence or a fine.
It’s illegal to jump the queue in a Tube ticket
hall
Londoner’s
rejoice! Under the TfL Railway Byelaws, it’s technically illegal to push in the
queue when buying a tube ticket. Any person directed to a queue by a person of
authority or a sign, must join that queue at the rear and follow any further
instructions given.
It’s illegal to kill or eat a swan (unless you’re
the Queen)
Legislation
dating all the way back to the 12th century states that all mute swans belong
to the reigning monarch - making it illegal for any citizens to kill or eat
one. It’s also illegal to kill a wild bird under the Wildlife and Countryside
Act, and a man was even fined £215 in 2014 for killing a swan in Kent.
It’s against the law to carry planks on the
pavement
You might
have seen builders carrying planks along the pavement at some point, but it’s
actually an offence under section 54 of the Metropolitan Police Act from 1839.
Other offences included in this act include flying kites in the street, playing
‘annoying’ games and sliding on ice or snow.
It’s
unlikely that you’ll become tangled up in any of the laws above, but if you’re
looking for professional legal advice in Nottingham, get in touch with Hawley
& Rodgers. Our expert team of solicitors are on hand to assist with a range
of issues, including family law, wills and probate, conveyancing, commercial
law, and more. To book an appointment or discuss how we can assist you, give us
a call today or visit our website.
