Democracy: Most Effective Way To Govern Scotland Flashcards
Point (Status Quo)
Retaining Status Quo.
Explanation (Status Quo)
The current system of a devolved government is the fairest and most effective way to govern Scotland as it is the will of the Scottish people.
First Example (Status Quo)
55% of Scottish electorate voted against independence in 2014.
First Analysis (Status Quo)
Most people chose to retain the status quo and reject independence showing that it is the will of the Scottish people.
Rebuttal (Status Quo) (Furthermore)
Scotland has some power over decisions made on devolved matters and still has the security of being in the UK.
Second Example (Status Quo)
Devolved powers: health, education, some tax raising powers. Best of both worlds.
Second Analysis (Status Quo)
Some groups don’t see independence as the best approach as Scotland has some legislative powers.
Evaluation (Status Quo)
Status quo is preferred approach, exemplified by voting in 2014.
Point (Independence)
Some argue that independence is the best way to govern Scotland.
Explanation (Independence)
Scotland would have full responsibility for all decisions made and powers used. Westminster doesn’t listen to Scottish Parliament, undermines Scottish parliaments will.
Example (Independence)
2023 deposit return scheme Scottish government blocked from including glass. Scottish government undermined.
Analysis (Independence)
Westminster able to undermine Scottish Government. Current devolution settlement unfair. Independence is a solution to this.
Rebuttal (Independence)
Trade disruptions between Scotland and UK. Trade deals maybe renegotiated, possibility of trade barriers.
Example (Independence)
Article by Economic Observatory states there would need to be a new international border. More difficult for Scottish businesses due to border costs and tariffs which could increase between 15-30%.
Analysis (Independence)
Could lead to economic uncertainty for Scottish business owners and how they trade, negative economic impact.
Point (Devolution Max)
It could also be argued that the most effective way to govern Scotland would be for Scotland to adopt Devolution Max.
Explanation (Devolution Max)
This is the scenario where Scotland would have the maximum level of devolved powers without having full independence.
Example (Devolution Max)
Scottish parliament would gain powers over: tax, immigration, social security that are currently reserved for Westminster.
Analysis (Devolution Max)
Significantly expands the powers of the Scottish Government, keeps the benefits of UK
Rebuttal (Devolution Max)
May fragment the unity of the Nations of the UK.
Example (Devolution Max)
Critics of Devolution Max may argue that it grants too much power to Devolved Nations which could lead to increasing divergence in policy areas
Analysis (Devolution Max)
This could create challenges in maintaining a cohesive National framework between the Nations of the United Kingdom.
Evaluation (Devolution Max)
Would grant full legislative power and governmental control. Security and economic benefits of UK. ‘best of both worlds’
Evaluation (Independence)
While independence allows for more governmental freedoms/full political power. Economic drawbacks, high tax/inflation. Contentious.
