Administrative law is focused on the control of decision-making in government and the public sector. People are affected by it in a wide variety of contexts, including immigration, social welfare, public health, housing, planning, licensing, taxation, and policing. Administrative law sets standards that government and public sector bodies must follow. It also provides a range of avenues for challenging their decisions, such as complaining to an ombudsman, appealing to a tribunal, or applying to a court for judicial review.

This Very Short Introduction is a clear and concise guide to administrative law that explains its key features in an accessible and practical way for students, journalists, government officials, and everyday listeners. From internal review and freedom of information, to public inquiries and anti-corruption controls, the book gives listeners a broad overview of the subject. Drawing on material from diverse legal systems, such as the UK, Australia, Canada, the USA, India, and Hong Kong, this Very Short Introduction is relevant to all the major common law jurisdictions.