Scotland

• Origins of the Union

  • Scotland Act 1706 was passed to form the union and the England act 1707 was passed by Scottish parliament
• Origins of Devolution

  • 1970s - there was a threat of Scottish nationalism
  • SNP made gains in parliament so James Callaghan held a referendum on a legislative body in Scotland
  • 52% were in favour but due to the turnout of 33% it didn't pass due to the 40% requirement
• Origins of Devolution 2

  • Scottish nationalism re-emerged between 1979 and 1997
  • New Labour promised a referendum on devolution if they win
  • Creation of Scottish parliament - 74% voted yes
  • Tax-varying powers - 64% voted yes
  • Turnout - 60%
• Scottish parliament

  • Holyrood
  • Primary legislative powers which means it can make laws that were devolved from the UK
  • Scottish MPs still sit In Westminster as not all issues affect Scotland
• Scottish parliament 2

  • MSPs are elected using AMS
  • 73 MSPs are elected in a single member constituency via FPTP
  • 56 MSPs are elected across 8 regions using PR
  • System is designed to retain local representation, while making the result proportional
• Scottish government/executive

  • Drafts policies and implementation
  • Led by the first minster and the PM appoints a cabinet of minister
  • 1997-2007 labour and liberal democrats coalition
  • Since 2007 The SNP are in power