CA Inter P2 · Chapter 12 · Question 7 of 12
Which rule of interpretation is regarded as the primary rule, requiring the words of a statute to be given their plain and ordinary meaning when they are clear and unambiguous?
Test yourself: pick an answer
Reveal answer & explanation
Correct answer: D) The literal rule
Explanation
The literal rule is the primary rule of interpretation. Where the language of a statute is plain and unambiguous, the court must give effect to it whatever the consequences, because the legislature is presumed to mean what it says. Other rules are used mainly when the words are ambiguous or lead to absurdity.
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