The GCHQ case established that government prerogative powers are subject to judicial review, but national security concerns can exclude procedural fairness requirements. This landmark decision expanded judicial oversight of executive power while recognizing legitimate security limitations.

Two men challenged the UK's retention of their DNA profiles and fingerprints after charges against them were dropped or they were acquitted. The European Court of Human Rights ruled that blanket retention of biometric data from unconvicted individuals violated their right to privacy under Article 8 ECHR.

Bank Mellat challenged UK Treasury directions that effectively excluded the Iranian bank from the UK financial system under counter-terrorism legislation. The Supreme Court established important precedents on procedural fairness in national security cases and the courts' role in reviewing executive decisions affecting fundamental rights.

National security cannot justify deportation where real risk of torture exists.

No injunction for confidential information already in public domain

Press freedom restrictions must be proportionate and temporary to comply with Article 10 ECHR.

Deprivation of British citizenship unlawful where it renders dual nationals stateless under section 40(4) of the British

English law has no general tort of invasion of privacy.

Private life protection extends to public figures against unjustified media intrusion.

Government loses bid to suppress Cabinet minister's political diaries

Whistleblowing protection requires good faith but permits mixed motives including personal grievance.

Ministers cannot adopt blanket policies that fetter discretionary statutory powers.

House of Lords strikes down indefinite detention of terrorist suspects

Member States may restrict free movement to protect fundamental values like human dignity.

Supreme Court rules Investigatory Powers Tribunal decisions can be judicially reviewed

EU directives can have direct effect; free movement restrictions require present personal conduct threats

Attorney General cannot veto court orders on freedom of information disclosure

Courts must objectively determine jurisdictional facts in immigration detention cases.

EU fundamental rights override UN Security Council obligations

Confidential information cannot be stolen as it does not constitute property under theft law.

European Court establishes 'margin of appreciation' for state restrictions on expression