Bilingual Statutory Interpretation and the United Kingdom: Domestic Law and International Experiences.

This article examines the legal challenges posed by bilingual statutory interpretation in the United Kingdom, focusing on the High Court and Court of Appeal judgments in *R (on behalf of Driver) v Rhondda Cynon Tâf County Borough Council* (2020). It highlights the difficulties courts face in interpreting Welsh and English versions of legislation that hold equal legal status, particularly when judges lack Welsh language expertise. The article critiques the Court of Appeal's approach, which permits reliance on one language version unless a discrepancy is raised, and contrasts this with Canadian jurisprudence that mandates equal and simultaneous consideration of both language texts by qualified bilingual judges or linguistic experts. It argues for reforms including judicial bilingual training, expert linguistic assistance, and clearer procedural rules to ensure fair and accurate interpretation of bilingual laws, emphasizing the constitutional implications for the unified jurisdiction of England and Wales.