Devolution

What is devolution

Devolution is the transfer of some decision-making power from a central authority (Westminster) to its regions

When did Wales get official devolution

1999 but was very slow

When did Scotland get devolution

1999 after Scotland act of 1998 and 1997 referendum

When did Northern Ireland get devolution

1999 after 1998 Good Friday agreement

Example of Scotland using devolved powers

Scotland act 2016 which allowed it to set its own income tax rates

Example of Wales using devolved powers

Well being of future generations act 2015 - long-term impact of decisions

Example of Northern Ireland using devolved powers

Northern Ireland act 2019 which legalised gay marriage and abortions

Why is devolution good

Subsidiarity, pluralism, cultural recognition

How might devolution affect UK politics

Greater policy divergence and rise of nationalist parties

limitations on the Scottish Parliament

Depends on UK for funding and can’t make policy on reserved powers

Example of Scottish Parliament dependent on Funding

Barnett Formula which is a large sum given dependent on the UK treasury

Example of reserved powers

defence, immigration and foreign affairs

consequences of devolution

growth of nationalism, policy divergence and complex management for UK gov

Example of devolution being complexed for UK gov

COVID-19 because all set different public health rules, leading to varied lockdowns

Why devolution is best in Northern Ireland

Reduced tensions of the Troubles managing it through power sharing

Example of health policy differed to UK

Free prescriptions in Wales and Northern Ireland vs. England