Devolution

Question 1

Has devolution worked well in the UK?
- yes

Answer 1

• allowed regional political differences to be recognised
• strengthened union between regions creating best of both worlds
• popular with voters
• vital for peace process (NI)
• variety of electoral systems used and shown cross party gov can work
• encouraged innovation in policy making

Question 2

Has devolution worked well in the UK?
- no

Answer 2

• led to inequalities in provision and cost of public services within the UK
• encouraged separation weakening unity (Brexit, Scot NI remain)
• SNP 2nd referendum suggesting devo not gone far enough
• community relations remain fragile (NI suspension 2017-20)
• not led to momentum for replacement of FPTP, cross party in NI has been seen to be gridlocked and problematic

Question 3

Should england have its own P?
- yes

Answer 3

• would complete devo and remove asymmetry
• enable english identity and culture to flourish
• would resolve the West Lothian Question
• would enable more power to be decentralised away from London
• growing calls for it from some politicians
• devo worked well elsehwere in the UK

Question 4

Should england have its own P?
- no

Answer 4

• england different from other regions in size of economy
• england lacks identity but culture is more regional
• EVEL addressed WLQ
• considerable expense involved and would weaken P
• no evidence of strong public support