Devolution Flashcards
(60 cards)
What is devolution?
The statutory delegation of powers from the UK central government to subnational governments (Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland), allowing them to make decisions on certain matters.
What is the difference between devolution and federalism?
Devolution powers can be revoked by the central government; federalism constitutionally divides sovereignty between central and regional governments.
What are the three types of devolution?
Legislative devolution, administrative devolution, and financial devolution.
What are the main aims of devolution in the UK?
Accommodate national identities, improve governance by local decision-making, reduce independence demands, increase political stability.
When did devolution first occur in the UK?
1998, after the 1997 referendums.
Which Prime Minister introduced the modern devolution settlements?
Tony Blair.
What legislation established devolution in Scotland and Wales?
Scotland Act 1998 and Government of Wales Act 1998.
What is the difference between primary and secondary legislative powers?
Primary powers allow making new laws; secondary powers allow making detailed regulations under those laws.
What is the Scottish Parliament?
A devolved legislature with law-making powers on many domestic issues.
When was the Scottish Parliament established?
1999.
What electoral system is used in Scottish Parliament elections?
Mixed Member Proportional (Additional Member System).
What powers does the Scottish Parliament have?
Powers over health, education, justice, environment, transport, and some taxation.
What are the reserved powers held by Westminster in Scotland?
Defense, foreign affairs, immigration, constitutional matters, monetary policy.
What is the Barnett Formula?
A formula to allocate public spending to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland relative to England.
What tax powers does the Scottish Parliament have?
Control over income tax rates/bands, Land and Buildings Transaction Tax, and other devolved taxes.
How did the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum affect devolution?
Though independence was rejected, it led to more powers for Scotland via the 2016 Scotland Act.
What were the consequences of the 2016 Scotland Act?
Expanded tax and welfare powers were devolved to Scotland.
When was the Welsh Assembly established?
1999.
What is the difference between the Senedd and the Welsh Assembly?
The Senedd (Welsh Parliament) replaced the Welsh Assembly in 2020, reflecting increased legislative powers.
What electoral system is used for Welsh Senedd elections?
Additional Member System (mixed proportional).
How has devolution evolved in Wales since 1999?
Powers have expanded from administrative to primary law-making powers.
What powers does the Welsh Senedd currently have?
Law-making in areas like health, education, transport, and some taxation powers.
What was the result of the 2011 Welsh devolution referendum?
Welsh voters approved giving the Senedd primary legislative powers.
What are examples of devolved powers in Wales?
Health, education, transport, environment, agriculture.