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Evaluate the view that devolution has been good for Wales and Scotland but not for England and Northern Ireland - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 2
Evaluate the view that devolution has been good for Wales and Scotland but not for England and Northern Ireland. In your answer you should draw on relevant knowledg... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the view that devolution has been good for Wales and Scotland but not for England and Northern Ireland - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points in Agreement
Answer
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Gains in Powers: Both Scotland and Wales have gained additional powers through the Scotland Acts. This has allowed them to address local issues more effectively. In contrast, England has not obtained similar devolved powers, which could be seen as a disadvantage for England's local governance.
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Perceived Success of Devolution: Devolution in Wales and Scotland has generally been viewed as a success, contributing positively to their political landscape and identity. The Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly have been instrumental in making policy changes that reflect their regional needs.
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Suspensions in Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland’s political situation has been unstable, with the Stormont Assembly being suspended for extended periods. Such interruptions raise concerns about the effectiveness and reliability of devolution in Northern Ireland compared to Wales and Scotland.
Step 2
Points in Disagreement
Answer
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Satisfaction with Outcomes: Devolution has not fully satisfied demands for Scottish independence or Welsh political desires, which shows that the devolution arrangements are not entirely entrenched or settled.
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Limited Powers for the Welsh Parliament: Critics argue that the Welsh Parliament has fewer powers compared to its counterparts, impacting its ability to govern effectively. The powers granted are often seen as limited and insufficient.
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Absence of a Separate English Parliament: England does not have a separate parliament, which raises questions about how English interests are represented in the broader UK political framework. This absence can lead to a sense of neglect within England itself.
Step 3
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while devolution has brought significant gains for Wales and Scotland, it has not proven equally beneficial for England and Northern Ireland. The varied experiences highlight the complexities associated with devolution and raise questions about future governance structures in the UK. There is a clear need to consider the perspectives of all regions to ensure effective representation and governance.