Manx law has a distinct system of insular binding precedent based on cases brought before the Island's courts.
It has been held by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (on 5 August 1663 in William Christian's case) that Acts of Parliament can also automatically apply to the Isle of Man by 'necessary implication'.
Today, Acts of Parliament are adopted[clarification needed] by the Isle of Man to avoid unnecessary duplication, or where a consistent approach is essential because of an international aspect to the issue (the UK has a responsibility for the external affairs of the Island).
It is ... not contended, if as a fact Imperial Acts and Measures do apply to the Island either in whole or in part, that the Insular Legislature could effect any limitation or alteration of that application.All three [Crown dependencies] are tenants at will of their constitutional privileges.
[citation needed] The constitutional relationship was tested when the Isle of Man, supply based for Radio Caroline, rejected the Marine, &c., Broadcasting (Offences) Act 1967, but the legislation was extended to the island anyway by an Order in Council.