Abstract
The domestic system of administrative law is frequently given a narrow definition in relation to the control of governmental powers. This chapter describes the conceptual and theoretical foundations of administrative law. The elaboration of ‘red light’ and ‘green light’ theory draws out the contrast between a court-centred control model and the notion of law as an enabling tool with the emergence of administrative remedies as part of the development of the welfare state. The chapter proceeds to sketch out the historical, political, and social origins of administrative law.
