MOCKS SOURCE: Devolution is in danger of undermining UK unity 2019 Flashcards
What did the 2012 Scotland Act do?
Gave Scottish Parliament the power to vary tax rates by 10%.
SNP had done this.
What are the 3 factors?
Thirst of independence
Uneven devolution
Created tensions
What has the SNP done since 2011?
Was big for independence, led to a referendum but 55% voted to remain.
2014 proposed a referendum for 2023 but rejected by the Supreme Court.
Which other region is content without independence? Example?
Wales.
1998 0.3% voted for devolution in referendum.
2019- Plaid Cymru rally. 10k marchers only.
What’s the difference between the devolution of Scotland’s and Wales’ justice system?
Scotland justice system= fully devolved.
Welsh justice system= not devolved at all.
What is the problem with the Barnett Formula?
Unfairly distributes money.
E.g., Scottish citizens £11k spent per head compared to £9k in England.
When did the Northeast reject the chance to have their own assembly?
2004
When was the Scotland Act and the Wales Act?
What do they show?
2014- Wales Act
2016 - Scotland Act
Shows devolution will be extended where it is clearly called for.
How does devolution enhance SNP powers?
SNP traditionally have a small number of seats in UK but can claim a mandate to represent all of Scotland.
Means if UK govt and Scottish govt disagree… constitutional crisis?!
Provide a recent example where the UK government and Scottish government have disagreed.
2023 Gender Recognition Bill.
British government blocked using section 35 powers… said it would undermine equality efforts in the UK.
What did British parliament do whilst Northern Ireland’s executive was disbanded?
Directly legislated for same-sex marriage and abortion in Northern Ireland.
What preserved powers does the UK government retain?
Foreign policy, defence, and currency.
Provide an example of the UK using its preserved powers.
Supreme Court judgement prevented Scottish Parliament independence referendum.
