Discuss the different ways of governing Scotland (20 marks)

Question 1

introduction

Answer 1

In Scotland, the country’s parliament is in control of devolved matters such as health and education. These powers were delegated to the Scottish parliament by Westminster, who are in control of reserved matters such as immigration and defence. However, instead of devolution there are two other ways in which Scotland could be governed. This essay will analyse and evaluate the different ways of governing Scotland, including the current method of devolution and the alternative methods of independence and direct rule.

Question 2

DEVOLUTION
ARGUMENT 1: FOSTERS SCOTTISH CULTURE

Answer 2

• With Scottish parliament having control over education, language policy and cultural initiatives, they can continue to support the development and promotion of Scotland’s rich heritage
• For example, includes promoting Gaelic language and encouraging studying of Scottish authors through ‘Scottish Set Text’ section of SQA’s English qualification
  A: highlights the benefits of devolution, helps to keep Scotland’s rich culture alive; allowing Scottish citizens to stay in touch with ancestors and countries history.
• would not be case under direct rule, Westminster’s priorities would not include keeping Scotland’s culture alive
• devolution allows Scotland to honour its distinct identify whist integrating the cultural elements into modern governance
  A: illustrates the effectiveness of devolution, as it results in a strengthened feeling of pride and belonging among Scotland’s citizens

Question 3

DEVOLUTION
ARGUMENT 2: IMPROVES PARTICIPATION IN SCOTTISH ELECTIONS

Answer 3

• because devolution empowers people for Scotland by bringing decision making closer to them
• This in turn strengthens Scotland’s democratic participation and engagement, indicating devolution allows Scottish citizens to feel their political voice is louder, and that they have a greater influence on government decision making
• By having parliament specific to Scotland, citizens have direct and accessible platform to influence the decisions that have vast impact on their everyday lives
• Devolution gives people of Scotland a voice in crafting their future through referendums and petitions specific to their countries wishes
  A: signifies deepening of democratic process, indicates that having stronger voice ensures governance of Scotland reflects will of the Scottish people instead of the English too.

Question 4

INDEPENDENCE
ARGUMENT 1: ALLOWS SCOTLAND TO HAVE FULL CONTROL OVER ALL ISSUES

Answer 4

• Independence would allow Scotland power to make all its own decisions over every policy area
• Scotland would not have to follow priorities of UK government, means they could tailor each decision and policy to specific needs of Scotland
• important decisions regarding foreign policy, defence and parts of the economy all made in Westminster, where Scotland has very minimal say: means needS and wants of Scotlandlikely not being considered, resulting in important decisions being crafted way tailored to England rather than Scotland
• For example, Scotland could control theirimmigration policy if they become independent, would really benefit Scotland as they currently face challenges regarding population aging and labour shortages
• Independence would allow Scotland to cater immigration policy to needs of country, be greatly beneficial as current UK wide immigration policies often fail to adequately address Scotland’s needs

Question 5

INDEPENDENCE
ARGUMENT 2: ECONOMICALLY BENEFIT SCOTLAND

Answer 5

• Independence would allow Scotland to manage and harness its sustainable natural resources such as North Sea oil and renewable energy
• estimated that around 96% of the Uk’s oil and 63% of its natural gas production occur in Scottish waters
  A: implies that upon splitting from the UK, independent Scotland could direct profits and opportunities they generate to its citizens more strongly and directly

Question 6

DIRECT RULE

Answer 6

• Direct rule would mean abolishment of Scottish parliament and the return to Westminster having full control over Scotland
• During periods of global challenge or crisis, direct rule allows for a more thorough and coordinated response, indicates that direct rule helps to ensure the provision of swift and united action across the UK, meaning that the decisions made would be stronger
• For example, during Covid-19 pandemic, direct involvement from UK government allowed for rapid development and rollout of vaccination programme, this was one of the fastest in the world
• Scotland benefited greatly from access to vaccines, PPE and medical equipment under the same terms as the UK, evaded the delays and challenges smaller nations have to endure when operating independently
• financial support packages, E.G furlough scheme, were crafted and funded at UK level, providing critical economic relief to workers and businesses in Scotland.
  A: illustrates the value of a unified UK response during times of crisis and challenges, which means that no nation would be disregarded