Diplomatic and parliamentary immunities put limitations on

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which principle of government is limited by diplomatic and parliamentary immunities. These immunities protect certain people (diplomats and legislators) from legal action.

Step 2: Explain the concept The rule of law, as explained by A.V. Dicey, has three main parts:

• No one can be punished except for a breach of law established in the courts.
• Everyone, whatever their rank or status, is equal before the law.
• The law is supreme over arbitrary power.

Step 3: Apply the concept

• Diplomatic immunity: Diplomats (ambassadors, high commissioners and their staff) cannot be arrested, prosecuted or sued in the host country's courts for most offences.
• Parliamentary immunity: Legislators cannot be sued for defamation over statements made in the House during debates, and they cannot be arrested for what they say there.

In both cases, certain people are exempt from ordinary legal processes. This goes against the principle of equality before the law, which is a core part of the rule of law. So these immunities are recognized exceptions to, or limitations on, the rule of law.

Step 4: Eliminate the other options

• B. Separation of powers: This divides government into the executive, legislature and judiciary. Immunities do not limit it.
• C. Checks and balances: This is how the arms of government restrain one another. Immunities do not restrict it.
• D. Foreign policies: Diplomatic immunity helps carry out foreign policy. It does not limit it.

Answer: A. the rule of law

Exam tip: When you see "immunity" in a Government question, think of exceptions to equality before the law. Immunity means being above ordinary legal action, which is a limit on the rule of law.