Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to John Amery, a British politician who was known for his controversial views and actions during World War II. The quote speaks to the violation of the Habeas Corpus Act and the fundamental laws of the constitution in relation to the treatment of certain individuals who were denied due process and legal representation.

The Habeas Corpus Act has a long history in English and British law, dating back to the 17th century. It is a legal principle that protects individuals from arbitrary arrest and imprisonment by ensuring that they have the right to challenge the legality of their detention before a court. In essence, it prevents the government from holding someone in custody without just cause or without providing them with the opportunity to defend themselves in court.

The fundamental laws of the constitution, as referenced in the quote, likely allude to broader principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law that are enshrined in the legal and political framework of a society. These principles are often seen as fundamental to a functioning and just legal system, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and have access to legal recourse when their rights are infringed upon.

The quote suggests that there were individuals who were denied the rights afforded to them under the Habeas Corpus Act and the broader constitutional principles. They were not given the opportunity to stand trial or to seek legal counsel, which represents a clear violation of their legal rights.

John Amery, the author of the quote, was himself a controversial figure due to his collaboration with Nazi Germany during World War II. He was known for his pro-fascist views and his efforts to recruit British prisoners of war to fight against the Allies. Amery's own actions and beliefs were antithetical to the values of the British legal and constitutional system, making his invocation of these principles in the quote somewhat ironic.

The specific context or individuals to whom Amery was referring in the quote is not provided, but it is likely that he was highlighting cases where individuals were detained or mistreated without due process during the war. The wartime context often complicated legal proceedings and led to the suspension or circumvention of normal legal protections in the name of national security and military necessity.

Throughout history, there have been numerous instances where governments have suspended or violated legal protections such as the Habeas Corpus Act during times of conflict or perceived threat to national security. These actions have been the subject of much debate and controversy, as they raise fundamental questions about the balance between individual rights and collective security.

In conclusion, the quote by John Amery raises important issues related to the protection of individual rights and the rule of law, particularly in times of crisis or conflict. It serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of legal principles such as habeas corpus and the broader constitutional framework in safeguarding the rights of individuals within a society. It also underscores the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding the application of these principles in complex and fraught political contexts.