The State

The constitution of Portugal, in effect since 1933, has been undergoing amendments since the coup. It is a complex structure, creating a political set‑up which is described in the government's own words as a "Corporative Republic".

This term means simply that the Government is made up by representation from the main groupings of Portuguese society, these being the families, the municipalities and the representatives of private enterprise, the same organic components which make up the representative segment of the Spanish Government.

The three elements reflect motives of unity and common interest that are age‑old: namely blood relationship, geographical bonds and common economic interest. Groupings based on more ephemeral relationships are also represented in the corporation, but this is a highly complex matter, and still in a state of flux.

The chief executor is the President of the Republic, elected by universal suffrage for a seven year term. He may serve an unlimited number of successive terms.

The legislative branch is composed of the National Assembly and the Corporative Chamber. The former house, directly elected by universal suffrage, has 120 members and is able to generate, discuss and consider legislation. The second house, the Corporative Chamber, is made up of "procurators", who are chosen as representatives of various important economic, cultural and other organizations and interests. This latter house has the power to review legislation submitted by the National Assembly or the Government.

The Government, an extension of the executor, is a Council of 14 Ministers and the President. The Council is chosen by the President and responsible to him.

The judicial branch is a pyramid structure, with the first appeal going to the District Courts. The next higher layer is composed of the Courts of Appeal, with the highest court in the land the Supreme Court. There are also Magistrates Courts existing in some locations, which, where they exist, handle petty offences.