The gradual erosion of the ultra vires doctrine in English company law

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the doctrine of ultra vires and its development over time, which is claimed to be one of gradual erosion.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses the doctrine of ultra vires and its development overtime, which is claimed to be one of gradual erosion.

Findings

It shows how the abolition of the objects clause has signalled the end of ultra vires. Today, it remains nothing more than a ghost, but one which continues to haunt management.

Originality/value

It builds on existing research literature.

Citation

Nyombi, C. (2014), "The gradual erosion of the ultra vires doctrine in English company law", International Journal of Law and Management, Vol. 56 No. 5, pp. 347-362. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLMA-08-2012-0027