Devolution not gone far enough in the 4 nations?

Question 1

Lack of devolution in England/ assymmetry

Answer 1

1. Despite having over 80% of population of the UK yet has signifcantly less devolution (limited powers granted to metro mayors)
2. constitutional imbalance ie EVEL- abolished in 2021 with no resolution

Question 2

Too much devolution already (inefficiencies/lack of unity) Plus lack of turnout for current devolution ie mayoral elections

Answer 2

1. Turnout averaged 29% in metro mayor elections​
2. Covid 19- different nations took their own approach to lifting lockdowns and had to agree to the Coronavirus Act passed by Westminster. Creates unnecessary confusion on matters of national importance​

Question 3

Scotland demands greater autonomy

Answer 3

1. Scottish independence referendum 2014- 45% voted yes
2. More political pressure with SNP gaining 56 seats out of 59 in Scotland in 2015​ G.E

Question 4

Greater inequalities with continued devolution

Answer 4

1. Barnett formula: spending per head is higher in devolved nations than in England
   2022- Scotland: £14,000 per capita
   England: just over £12,000 per capita

Question 5

Wales and NI has more limited devolved powers than scotland

Answer 5

1. A 2021 poll showed that around 60% of Welsh people supported devolving justice and policing.
2. 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 6

Weak Accountability and Turnout

Answer 6

1. Welsh Senedd 2021 turnout: 47%
2. NI been suspended 38% of its lifetime (potentially inefficient to devolve more powers to (more politically sensitive/unstable)