This work investigates the historical development, implementation, and political impact of the referendum as a democratic mechanism within the United Kingdom. The authors, including scholars Lucy Atkinson, Andrew Blick, and Matt Qvortrup, utilize a combination of historical analysis and political theory to examine how direct democracy has functioned alongside the traditional parliamentary system. The text argues that the referendum has evolved from a rare constitutional anomaly into a significant, albeit controversial, tool for resolving major political disputes.

Experts recognize this volume as a thorough academic resource for understanding the evolution of British constitutional practices. Readers frequently note the scholarly density of the prose, which makes it a suitable reference for students and researchers of political history.