learning politics

example 1

• the 1997 referendums on Scottish and Welsh devolution - strong mandates for constitutional change, particularly in Scotland where there was overwhelming support

message of devolution

• this legitimacy helped to entrench the devolved institutions and reduce opposition to their existence

example 2

• the 2014 Scottish independence referendum -  exceptionally high turnout of over 80%

what was 2 showing

• demonstrated a high level of political engagement and conferred legitimacy on the outcome

effect of 2

• settled the question temporarily through democratic consent rather than parliamentary imposition