Lloyd v McMahon [1987] AC 625

House of Lords

Facts: Councillors challenged the failure of auditors to provide an oral hearing, arguing that it rendered the decision-making process a nullity. The issue was what fairness requires in administrative decisions.

Held: The House of Lords held that what fairness requires depends on the character of the decision-maker, the circumstances, and the relevant Act. The fairness of the process must be assessed in context rather than as an absolute standard.

Judicial Statement: Lord Bridge noted, “So-called natural justice is not engraved on tablets of stone; its requirements vary with the context and nature of the decision-making body.”