Devolution in Britain today provides a comprehensive analysis of both the historical development and the current state of devolved government. Devolution is now a key element in A-level syllabuses and on most undergraduate politics courses. This book is written in a clear and accessible style for students either encountering devolution for the first time or for those who need to explore the subject area in greater detail. All of the devolved bodies in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are examined. This book is a thorough update of the first edition, written by Colin Pilkington and published by MUP in 2002.
The book explains the concept and background of devolution, and indicates the constitutional implications of political devolution in the United Kingdom before providing a full and considered historical background to devolution, including an explanation of how the United Kingdom came to be united. It then examines the historical and political events that surrounded the preparation of devolution across Britain, before addressing each country in turn, assessing the relative success of devolution in that country.
1. Introduction: the wider meaning of devolution
Part I: Foundation and origins
2. The making of the United Kingdom
3. Home Rule - precursor of devolution
Part II: Preparing for devolution
4. Scotland and Wales - devolution resurgent
5. Northern Ireland - Stormont, the first devolution, and the aftermath
Part III: The devolution settlement
6. Scotland - success of a sort
7. Wales - county council or parliament
8. Northern Ireland - the more off, than on, agreement
9. The English question
10. Conclusion: how far have we come and where do we go from here?
Appendix 1. Results of the referendum of 11 Septmeber 1997 in Scotland
Appendix 2. Formula for working out the winners of regional seats in the Additional Member System (AMS)
Appendix 3. Principles adopted by the National Assembly for Wales in government bills affecting the Assembly (The Rawling Principles)
Appendix 4. Results of the referendum of 18 September 1997 in Wales
Appendix 5. The electoral regions and districts of Wales
Appendix 6. Membership of the Welsh Assembly executive
Appendix 7. The single transferable vote (STV) electoral system
Appendix 8. The Northern Ireland Assembly - party representation, June 1998
Appendix 9. Ministers and committees of the Northern Ireland Assembly
Appendix 10. Members of the Standing Committee on (English) Regional Affairs (as convened 10 May 2001)
Appendix 11. The GLA assembly members, 6 May 2000
