Devolution

1

100

What is devolution?

Devolution is the transfer of power from the central UK government (in London) to the governments of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This means these regions have some ability to make their own laws and decisions on certain issues.

200

Why was devolution introduced?

• Acknowledge regional differences:  Different parts of the UK have unique identities and priorities.

• Improve governance:  Decisions can be made closer to the people they affect.

• Address calls for greater autonomy:  Especially in Scotland and Wales, there were strong movements desiring more self-rule.

300

Why might people in Scotland want more devolution?

So they can make more decisions about things that affect them directly.

400

What are some of the challenges posed by devolution to the UK?

• Complexity:  Governing becomes more complex with multiple layers of lawmaking.

• Potential for conflict:  Disagreements can arise between the UK government and devolved bodies (e.g., over Brexit, COVID-19 responses).

• Funding disparities:  Questions about how funding is allocated between the different parts of the UK.

• West Lothian Question:  Scottish MPs can vote on matters affecting England, while English MPs have no say on devolved Scottish issues.

500

How might devolution evolve in the future?

• Further devolution:  More powers could be devolved to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

• English devolution:  There could be moves towards regional devolution or even an English Parliament.

• Federalism:  The UK could move towards a more federal system with greater autonomy for all its constituent nations.

• Independence:  Scotland could hold another independence referendum, potentially leading to the breakup of the UK.

2

100

Which UK countries have devolved governments?

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. England does not have its own devolved government.

200

Where does the UK Parliament meet?

In London, England.

300

What is the name of the devolved parliament in Wales?

The Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru).

400

Can people in Wales vote for the UK Parliament AND the Welsh Parliament?

Yes, they have representatives in both.

500

How has Brexit impacted devolution?

• Increased tensions:  Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to remain in the EU, leading to calls for greater autonomy or even independence.

• Repatriation of powers:  Some powers previously held by the EU have been returned to the UK, raising questions about whether they should be held by the UK government or devolved administrations.

• Impact on trade:  New trade barriers between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK have created challenges for businesses and raised concerns about the Good Friday Agreement.

3

100

What are some areas devolved governments can make laws about?

• Education:  Schooling, curriculum.

• Health:  Hospitals, healthcare services.

• Transportation:  Roads, some public transport.

• Environment:  Agriculture, some environmental regulations.

200

Does England have its own devolved parliament?

No, only Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland do.

300

Why is devolution in Northern Ireland different?

Because it has to make sure both unionist and nationalist communities are represented.

400

True or False: Devolution means each country in the UK has its own currency.

False. The whole UK uses the British Pound.

500

True or False: The Welsh Government can raise its own taxes.

True

4

100

What is NOT devolved?

 The UK government retains power over things like:

• Defense:  The military, national security.
• Foreign policy:  International relations, treaties.
• Economy:  Setting overall economic policy, currency.

200

Can Scotland make all its own laws?

No, some things like defense and foreign policy are still decided by the UK Parliament.

300

Can the UK Parliament take back devolved powers?

es, in theory, although it would be politically difficult.

400

Name one power the Welsh Government has.

Education (or health, or agriculture - any of the devolved areas would be correct)

500

Name one way devolution has benefited the UK.

Allowed for policies specific to regional needs (e.g., free prescriptions in Scotland)

5

100

Does devolution mean Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are independent countries?

No, they are still part of the United Kingdom.

200

Why is devolution important?

It allows different parts of the UK to have a say in how they are governed

300

Where does the Northern Ireland Assembly meet?

At Parliament Buildings, Stormont, in Belfast.

400

What is the name of the political party that currently leads the Scottish Government?

Scottish National Party (SNP)

500

What is a potential drawback of having different policies in different parts of the UK

It can create confusion and inequality.