Alternatives for governance for Scotland

Q: What is Direct Rule by Westminster?

Point – Direct Rule means UK MPs govern Scotland.

Q: How would Direct Rule by Westminster work?

Explain – Direct Rule means Westminster decides for Scotland, with UK MPs voting.

Q: Can you provide an example where Direct Rule might be beneficial?

Example – COVID-19 showed differing rules in Scotland, which Direct Rule could unify.

Q: What is the argument in favor of Direct Rule?

Analysis – Direct Rule would create consistent laws and taxes across the UK.

Q: What is the main argument against Direct Rule?

Counter Point – Direct rule reduces Scotland's representation in Westminster.

Q: Why is the democratic deficit a problem with Direct Rule

A: Counter Explain –Democratic deficit occurs when laws pass without Scottish MPs.

Q: Can you give an example of the democratic deficit in action?

A: Counter Example – In the 1980s, Scotland voted Labour, but Thatcher's policies passed. In 2016, most Scottish MPs opposed Brexit.

Q: Why is the democratic deficit an ongoing issue?

A: Counter Analysis –The democratic deficit causes tension as Scotland’s views are ignored.

Q: How does the democratic deficit affect the debate on Direct Rule?

A: Link – Direct Rule ensures consistency but worsens the disconnect with Westminster.

Question: What is the main point of supporting Devolution for Scotland?

Answer: The main point is that devolution has allowed Scotland to develop Scottish solutions to Scottish problems and has made positive changes in various areas like equality, public services, and welfare.

Question: How does devolution allow Scotland to develop its own solutions?

Answer: Devolution enables Scotland to have its own Parliament with powers to make decisions over ‘devolved matters’ such as education, healthcare, and local government, while the UK Parliament retains control over ‘reserved matters’.

Question: Can you provide an example of how devolution has benefited Scotland?

Answer: One key example is Scotland’s introduction of a more progressive tax system, where the wealthy pay higher rates to fund public services and welfare, reflecting the Scottish Parliament's flexibility in addressing local needs.

Question: Why is this progressive tax system significant for devolution?

Answer: This demonstrates that devolution is a flexible system capable of responding to demands for increased powers, making Scotland a more equal and collectivist society. It shows the success of the Scottish Parliament in creating policies that reflect the values of its citizens.

Question: What is a common argument against Devolution?

Answer: A strong argument against devolution is the ‘West Lothian Question’ – why should Scottish MPs vote on issues affecting only England when they do not face the same policies in Scotland?