1.3 the role and powers of devolved bodies in the UK Flashcards
What two new institutions were established in London from 2000?
- an elected mayor with executive powers
- supported by the Greater London Assembly
Who was the first mayor of london?
Ken Livingstone
What did Ken Livingstone introduce to central london and why?
congestion charge for drivers entering central london in response to increased traffic and air pollution
How many urban areas adopted the elected mayor model by 2015 after London?
16
What was the purpose of regional development agencies?
to promote economic development on behalf of central government
What did the coalition do after abolishing Labours regional development agencies?
combined local authorities in so-called ‘city regions’, each being led by a directly elected ‘metro mayor’
How many city regions are there?
8
What are the main powers of metro mayors?
developing an economic growth strategy
making policy on housing, skills and transport
What are the ‘reserved powers’?
defence
foreign policy
constitutional matters
welfare benefits
important areas of economic policy including trade, the currency and interest rates
Why did Scotland receive more powers?
it has a strong nationalist movement and it has a history of existence as a separate state (different legal and education systems)
Why did Wales get less powers?
Nationalism is politically weaker, and more concerned with protecting cultural identity than winning independence
When was the Scottish parliament and government set up?
1999
How many MSPs are there in the Scottish Parliament?
129
Who is the current first minister in Scotland?
Humza Yousaf
What are the main devolved powers exercised by the Scottish parliament?
- education
- police and fire services
- health and social services
- agriculture, fisheries and forestry