Devolution in the UK

• • Devolution is the transfer of powers from the central government to national governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
  • Reasons for devolution:
  • Local governments can better represent citizens.
  • Promotes self-governance.
• Westminster Parliament:

  • Retains control over reserved matters (e.g., defence, foreign affairs, and immigration).
• Scottish Parliament:

  • Formed after a 1997 referendum where 74% voted ‘yes.’
  • Controls areas like:
  • Environment
  • Education
  • Health and Social Work
  • Justice and Policing
• Welsh Assembly:

  • Established after a close 1997 vote (50.03% ‘yes’).
  • Holds powers like promoting the Welsh language but lacks control over justice and policing.
• Northern Ireland Assembly

  • Has powers like Scotland’s but may revert to Westminster during political crises.
• English Votes for English Laws (EVEL):

  • Ensures that English-only laws are approved by a majority of English MPs.