Alternative for Scottish Governance (20) Flashcards
Federalism- Explain
Federalism is a mode of political organisation that unties states in one overcrowding political system that allows each to maintain its own level of independence and autonomy. Federation that exist include Germany and the USA. if the UK were to be federal, we would be broken into four separate states; Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland, each with their own parliament plus one federal parliament uniting them
Federalism- Anaysis
Federalism allows all part of the union to choose their own solutions, it also deals with big issues such as immigration and defence together in a federal parliament. Positively, it also allows the expression of different national identities without interference from each other. However, only 10% of conservatives support federalism this means that it is unlikely federalism will happen as conservatives currently hold a majority government of Westminster. Federalism requires support across all parties. Some members of the public also argue that it does not go far enough and is watered down independence. On the basis of analysis it is unlikely that federalism is a realistic alternative for the future governance of Scotland.
Independence- Explain
Another alternative for Scottish Governance is independence. Independence means that Scotland will no longer be apart of the UK. We will also have full control over all matters, e.g. Foreign affairs & immigration, etc. Independence will also allow scotland to re-apply to join the EU as during Brexit Scottish views and opinions were not respected. Many say Scotland was removed from the EU against their wills
Independence- Analysis
Positively, Scotland will also remain safe and secure. The SNP have be against nuclear weapons, arguing that they are immoral, ineffective and expensive. Many supporters for independence believe that continuing to house nuclear weapons, Scotland is undermining, its stated commitment to its international obligations to reduce and disarm nuclear weapons. However, Independence may chose Scotland’s economy will be weakened, as we will lose all financial support from the UK. Also a key oil industry figure rebutted claims made by the leave campaign stating that scotland’s oil reserves are set to decline sharply in the next 15 years. This will create a very different economic position for Scotland, we may run out of money and therefor cannot run the NHS or education, this may lead us to take loans or rise our taxes.
Devo-max- Explain
Devo-max is often seen as a compromise between no change and independence. It would give Scotland more power, however, Scotland would remain in the UK, Therefore, the UK would continue to control reserved matters. Under devo-max Scotland would receive fiscal responsibility, this means Scotland would have full control over economic matters, including taxation. This is a long sought after power of the SNP, they want this because it gives Scotland financial independence.
Devo-max- Analysis
his means that the Scottish govt. Can set its own budgets and spending priorities. Foe example, more money could be spent on education. Under devo-max Scotland would also continue to benefit from the UK security framework. This allows Scotland to defend itself, this is especially important now as the war between Ukraine and Russia continues. However, devo-max is not clearly defined, Fiscal responsibility is st one option, there is some concern amongst MSPs and the general public as to what devo-max would be like in reality. This concern was highlighted in 2014, it was queried that it would be a 3-option referendum, ultimately it was not because, we didn’t know wha devo-max would look like; and it may have confused voters.
conclusion
After discussing all the different opinions, federalism would be the better option even though it is unlikely to happen. As it would allow all 4 nations to choose their own solutions. It gives a level of independence while still coming together for important issues such as international trade, foreign affairs, etc.
no change explain
No change will mean that nothing will change for the scottish parliament. Powers that are reserved will stay reserved e.g international trade, foreign affairs etc. the scottish government will still have powers over the devolved powers e.g education, health etc. No chance will mean that Scotland will continue to receive the financial support from Westminster which proved virtual during the covid pandemic.
no change analysis
Positively, this also means that scotland will still have military protection. However, there has been muliple changes in the world since 2014, to ignore this is wrong, therefore scots shouldbe given another chance for change.
