devolution overview

Question 1

what is devolution?

Answer 1

the decentralisation of power from central government to devolved levels of government

Question 2

how is devolution different to federalism?

Answer 2

with devolution, the central government still retains sovereignty, whereas with federalism sovereignty is shared between central government and states

Question 3

impact of devolution on voting systems:

Answer 3

-devolution has resulted in different voting systems being used across the UK
-in scotland and wales they use AMS
-in northern ireland they use STV
-these election systems are more proportional
-these different voting systems have increased representation in those devolved regions, making multi-party governance the norm

Question 4

arguments for england should have its own parliament:

Answer 4

1. currently all MPs from any part of the UK can vote on english issues, which is seen as unfair by some - leads to EVEL campaigns
2. would give a permanent answer to the west lothian question
3. would further reduce decentralisation of power from westminster
4. would give clear expression and priority to english identity

Question 5

arguments against england should have its own parliament:

Answer 5

1. english parliament would completely dominate the UK
2. would be difficult to decide on a location
3. would arguably weaken not strengthen the union
4. lack in public enthusiasm for it
5. the absence of any debate over laws for england would severely undermine the role of westminster parliament

Question 6

what other type of devolution has there been in the UK?

Answer 6

devolution to areas in england, giving them a ‘metro mayor’ who has executive powers and makes decisions for the area they are the mayor of