The
short title is the formal name by which a piece of
primary legislation may by law be
cited in the
United Kingdom and other Westminster-influenced
jurisdictions (such as
Canada or
Australia), as well as the
United States and the
Philippines. It contrasts with the
long title which, while usually being more fully descriptive of the legislation's purpose and effects, is generally too unwieldy for most uses. For example, the short title
House of Lords Act 1999 contrasts with the long title
An Act to restrict membership of the House of Lords by virtue of a hereditary peerage; to make related provision about disqualifications for voting at elections to, and for membership of, the House of Commons; and for connected purposes.