constitutional reforms since 1997, Conservative libdem coalition

Question 1

Conservative traditional opposition to reform

Answer 1

-Prefer to let change happen gradually and in response to circumstances rather than through design
-Support uncodified constitution

Question 2

Lib Dems support of reform

Answer 2

-Key policy of Lib Dems
-Changing the voting system, removing undemocratic elements like the House of Lords, and constraining the power of the executive
-Implementation of proposals for constitutional reform were one of the key conditions for Lib Dems joining the coalition
-2010 expense scandal, where MPs misused allowances and expenses, led Lib Dems to pursue a great modernization

Question 3

Constitutional reforms passed by coalition

Answer 3

-Fixed-term Parliament Act
-2011 EU Act, any new treaties transferring power to the EU should be subject to a referendum
-Implemented recommendations of Wright Committee, which gave backbenchers more power
-10 cities held referendums on whether to have a mayor, whilst the coalition accepted devolution and independence referendums in Wales and Scotland respectively

Question 4

Constitutional Reforms blocked/abandoned by the coalition

Answer 4

-One of Lib Dems conditions for joining the coalition was the holding of the AV vote in 2011, Conservatives led a successful campaign against AV.
-Conservatives sought to introduce legislation reducing the number of MPs and equalizing size of constituencies, Lib Dems withdrew their support because it would have harmed them in favour of Tories
-Coalition set up commissions on reforming the HRA and dealing iwth the West Lothian question, neither results in change due to disagreement

Question 5

Fixed Term Parliaments Act 2011

Answer 5

-Removed the power of PM to call a snap election when it suited them by requiring 2/3 of parliament to support it before it was called
-Legislation was ineffective after the coalition in 2017 and 2019, as governments were able to shame the opposition into voting for an election
-Act was repealed by Boris Johnson in 2022

Question 6

Further Devolution to Wales

Answer 6

-2011 referendum with 64% in favour, Wales given primary legislative control over devolved areas
-2014 Government of Wales Act, gave it control over landfill tax and stamp duty, and more control over health, education, transport