Devolution Flashcards
What is Devolution?
Transfer of powers from central government to regional governments
Special Power of The Scottish Parliament
Economic Development
Special Power of The Welsh Assembly
Highway + Transport
Special Power of The Northern Ireland Assembly
Trade
Example of the impact of Devolution on UK policy?
Scottish Health & Social Act (2005) - Banning smoking in public place =
England Health Act (2006) - Banning smoking inside
Types of Devolution?
Unitary State, Union State, Federal State, Quasi-Federal State
What is a Unitary State?
All power rests with central government, everywhere is governed the same way
What is a Union State?
Power remains in centre but nations have a degree of control too
What is a Federal State?
Constitution has divided power between national and regional government = regional gov have more political identity & authority
What is a Quasi-Federal State?
central government devolves some power to regional governments so as to limit parliamentary sovereignty.
Advantages of Devolution in UK (5)
Issues dealt with at appropriate level Offices in Brussels = directly to EU Cultural Identity can be Expressed Develop of policies System can evolve gradually
Disadvantages of Devolution in UK (5)
Expensive Conflict between governments Hasn't gone far enough Variation on Laws Overrepresentation; West Lothian Question
When did Devolution begin in the UK?
1999
What powers are still reserved for UK Government?
Defence & National Security
Energy
Foreign Policy
When was the Good Friday Agreement & What did it establish?
April 10th 1998 - Northern Ireland Assembly
