Devolution made more problems than solved

Question 1

Example of constitutional imbalance

Answer 1

1. “West Lothian Question” created in 2015, abolished in 2021
2. Barnett formula- imbalance in funding
3. Scotland has jurisdiction over all areas whereas Wales does not have control over justice and NI hasn’t got control over tax-varying powers.

Question 2

Increased democratic participation (argueably in areas that need it the most as the westminister govt is elected majorly on english votes)

Answer 2

Turnout for devolved elections in Scotland and Wales has increased over time.

1. Scottish Parliament 2021 election turnout: 63% (largest ever for Holyrood since establishment)
2. In 2021, polling showed majorities in Scotland, Wales, and NI support keeping their devolved governments.

Question 3

Rise in nationalism

Answer 3

1. In the Scottish independence referendum 2014, 45% voted to leave
2. More political pressure with SNP gaining 56 seats out of 59 in 2015​
3. Brexit reignited Irish unity debates and sectarian tensions. (NI protocol)
4. Strongly remain in scotland over EU referendum, exacerbating drive for nationalism and divisions in the union – 62% voted remain vs only 52% voting leave across whole of UK

Question 4

Success for peace in NI/ deal with increased pressure for scottiish independence (enhanced national identity by bringing power closer to the people)

Answer 4

1. Devolution was vital for the Good Friday Agreement (1998) and has contributed to relative peace. – enabled both sides to contribute to the democratic process
2. demands for scottish indepence as seen by the 45% vote yes in independence referendum 2014– couldve been higher without devolution

Question 5

Policy inefficiency

Answer 5

1. COVID-19 policies varied significantly across nations—different rules caused public confusion. (England and Wales required people to stay at home for several weeks in October and November of 2020 while Northern Ireland and Scotland did not)—Scotland adopted more cautious policies
   Different nations had to agree to the Coronavirus Act passed by Westminster
2. Different curriculum and qualifications in each nation complicate national coordination.

Question 6

But tailored policy making and local accountability

Answer 6

1. Scotland introduced free university tuition and prescription charges abolition. 90% of prescriptions are free (vs England, where they cost £9.65 each unless exempt)
2. COVID-in some cases, devolved governments acted faster and more cautiously than Westminster. Scotland and Wales, for example, imposed lockdowns or kept restrictions longer when cases were rising again in 2021.