Introduction to Devolution

Question 1

What is a Unitary State?

Answer 1

• All sovereignty lies in one area (Westminster before 1997)

Question 2

What are arguments for Devolution in the UK?

Answer 2

• Power to the people - reduced the risk of tyranny
• Democratically supported, protected by referendum
• Promotes local cultures, identities and problems
• Prevents break-up of UK

Question 3

What are the arguments against Devolution in the UK?

Answer 3

• Reduces power/sovereignty of Parliament
• It has been asymmetric and unequal
• Created the West Lothian question
• Creates an unnecessary and expensive layer of government

Question 4

What is the West Lothian Question?

Answer 4

• Questions whether representatives of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland should be allowed to vote on issues that only affect England as English MPs do not get a say in on issues in their Parliaments

Question 5

What referendums have helped with Devolution in Scotland?

Answer 5

• In 1997 there was a referendum on Devolution - 74.3% yes vote on 60% turn out

Question 6

What acts have assisted in providing further devolution for Scotland?

Answer 6

• Scotland Act (2012)/Scotland Act (2016) gave Scottish Parliament further powers
• 2014 Independence referendum failed by 55.3%
• SNP want another referendum post Brexit as opinion polls show Independence now stands consistently at about 50%

Question 7

What are two referendum allowed devolution/further devolution for the Welsh?

Answer 7

• 1997 - 50.3% yes vote on 50% turnout
• March 2011 voted 63.5% yes to further law making powers for Wales - 35% turnout

Question 8

What referendum rejected Northern Irish Independence?

Answer 8

• Should Northern Ireland stay in the UK - boycotted by Catholics
• 99% yes vote

Question 9

What was the good Friday agreement? How and when was it put into place?

Answer 9

• Peace agreement held by DUP, Labour campaigned for yes vote
• yes vote from both communities 71% on an 81% turnout