5.3 - The Impact of Devolution on the United Kingdom Flashcards
What is devolution?
The transfer of power from central government to subnational governments.
Why did Blair make devolution an essential part of New Labour’s programme?
It brought decision making closer to the people in an effort to constitutionally modernise the UK.
Why did Blair think the powers of devolution would strengthen the UK subnational ties?
Nationalist demands for greater self-determination would be satisfied.
How did devolution backfire on Blair?
- The SNP has become far more powerful in Scotland replacing Labour.
- There has been criticism of the asymmetric nature of devolution (England not getting any, Wales getting some, Scotland getting all)
What was the Act known as that established the Scottish Parliament and Executive?
Scotland Act 1998.
What did the Scotland Act 1998 involve?
Devolution of primary legislative powers to Scotland, including:
- Local government
- Housing
- Environment
- Law and Order
- Education
- Health
- Income tax varying by 3p.
How has Scotland used their devolved powers?
- Ban smoking in public places.
- Freedom of Information Act 2002.
- No tuition fees.
- Council tenants cannot purchase their housing.
What powers does Westminster reserve over Scotland?
Issues such as:
- Foreign policy
- Defence
- Immigration
- Monetary policy
How were the promises for ‘extensive new powers’ to Scotland enacted?
The Smith Commission was established.
More powers were transferred, being:
- Varying the RoI tax by up to 10p.
- 50% of the proceeds of VAT in Scotland go to Scotland.
- Determining abortion laws.
- Deciding air passenger duty.
- Determining speed limits.
What is the most significant inclusion of the Scottish Parliament Act?
Ensures the Scottish Parliament and Executive are permanent features of the UK constitution.
It can only be removed by referendum vote and not by Act of Parliament.
What event caused further desire for independence?
The fervently remain vote in Scotland compared to the leave vote for the rest of England and Wales.
What event in 2017 suggested there was still desire for unionism between Scotland and the UK?
The SNP lost considerable support since 2015.
Why does the independence movement have far less of an impact in Wales?
It was absorbed into the English state in Medieval times, not developing a distinct legal system.
Why has Welsh nationalism not seen as much success compared to Scottish nationalism?
The Labour party tends to win South-Wales and Plaid Cymru wins in North-Wales (far smaller).
Why was Wales offered less extensive devolved powers than Scotland in 1997?
There is less desire for Welsh nationalism.
