Why do we need statutory interpretation

Why do we need statutory interpretation

1. A broad term

   • There maybe words designed to cover several possibilities this can lead to problems as to how wide this should go an example would be the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991where it reads any dog of the type known as a pit bull terrier

2. Ambiguity

   • This is where a word has two or more meanings and it is not clear which meaning should be used

3. Changes in the use of the language

   • The meaning of words can change over the years. This was one of the problems in the case of Cheeseman v DPP

4. New developments

   • New technology may mean that an old act may not cover the new technology. An example would be in the case of Royal College of nursing vs DHSS

5. A drafting error

   • The Parliamentary Counsel who drafter the original bill may have made an error which has not be noticed by parliament