Scottish Devolution: An Overview

Although Scotland is a country in its own right, it is part of the United Kingdom, a political union, which is comprised of Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Prior to the establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, all legislative powers were under the sole control of the UK Parliament.

Scotland currently has two governments the UK and Scottish governments.

Scottish Devolution refers to the process by which certain legislative powers were transferred from the UK Parliament in Westminster to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. This process has allowed Scotland to gain greater control over its domestic affairs while remaining part of the United Kingdom.

Historical Background

The concept of devolution has roots in the long-standing debate over Scotland’s governance. Calls for greater autonomy date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries but gained momentum in the latter half of the 20th century.

• 1979 Referendum: Despite majority support, an early attempt to introduce devolution failed due to a voter turnout stipulation.

• 1997 Referendum: Following years of advocacy, a new referendum was held under Tony Blair’s Labour government. Scottish voters overwhelmingly supported the establishment of a devolved parliament.

Establishment of the Scottish Parliament

The Scotland Act 1998 was the legislative foundation of devolution. It established the Scottish Parliament, which officially began functioning in 1999. The parliament is based in Edinburgh and consists of 129 members elected using a mixed-member proportional representation system.

Powers of the Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament has control over "devolved" matters, which include:

• Education

• Health

• Justice

• Environment

• Agriculture and Fisheries

• Transport

• Economic Development

Certain areas, however, remain "reserved" to the UK Parliament, such as:

• Foreign affairs

• Defence

• Immigration

• Trade and Industry

• Fiscal and monetary policy

• Further Developments

Scotland Acts 2012 and 2016: These acts granted the Scottish Parliament further powers, including control over income tax rates, certain social security benefits, and borrowing powers.

2014 Scottish Independence Referendum: Scotland held a referendum on independence from the UK. Although 55% voted to remain part of the UK, the debate over Scotland’s autonomy remains active. Why does Scotland want independence?

Impact of Devolution

Devolution has allowed Scotland to implement policies tailored to its needs. For example, Scotland provides free prescriptions and takes a different approach to university tuition fees than the rest of the UK. Devolution has also reinvigorated discussions around Scotland’s identity and role within the UK.

Challenges and Ongoing Debates

Despite its success, devolution is not without challenges. The relationship between the Scottish and UK governments can be strained, particularly over reserved matters. The debate over full independence remains a divisive topic, with the Scottish National Party (SNP), ALBA Party and Green Party continuing to advocate for another referendum.

FAQs on Scottish Devolution

When did devolution in Scotland begin?

Devolution officially began in 1999 with the establishment of the Scottish Parliament, following a successful referendum in 1997 and the passage of the Scotland Act 1998.

What are "devolved" and "reserved" powers?

• Devolved Powers: Powers the Scottish Parliament controls, such as education, health, justice, and transport.

• Reserved Powers: Powers retained by the UK Parliament, including foreign policy, defence, immigration, and monetary policy.

How does Scottish devolution differ from independence?

Devolution grants Scotland control over certain areas of governance while it remains part of the UK. Independence would mean full sovereignty, and Scotland would become a separate nation-state.

How does Scottish Devolution compare to devolution in Wales and Northern Ireland?

While all three nations have devolved administrations, Scotland has the most extensive powers, including control over its legal system and taxation. Wales and Northern Ireland have different devolution arrangements tailored to their specific contexts.

Has devolution benefited Scotland?

Devolution has allowed Scotland to make policy decisions tailored to its needs, such as free prescriptions and a unique approach to education. Devolution has allowed the Scottish Government to mitigate the policies of the UK Government, such as the bedroom tax and winter fuel payments to pensioners.

What is a devolutionist?

A devolutionist is someone who believes in a more gradual release of powers to the Scottish Parliament instead of becoming fully independent. The term is sometimes used in a derogatory way against those who are seen as weak on independence despite being openly pro-independence.

Key Information

• Scottish Devolution is the process by which certain legislative and administrative powers are transferred from the UK Parliament to the Scottish Parliament.

• The Scottish Parliament was established in 1999 following a 1997 referendum.

• Scotland controls devolved areas like health, education, and transport but not reserved areas like defence or foreign policy.

• Scotland’s government can set income tax rates and address social issues differently from the UK Government.

• The debate over independence remains central to Scottish politics.

Conclusion

Scottish Devolution has significantly reshaped governance in Scotland, allowing it to make decisions tailored to its people’s needs while remaining part of the United Kingdom. Although the process has empowered Scotland and brought meaningful changes, it remains a complex and evolving subject. The ongoing debates around independence, Brexit, and the future balance of power ensure that Scottish devolution will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s identity and governance.