Photo AI
To what extent have devolution and membership of the EU affected representative democracy in the UK? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 2
To what extent have devolution and membership of the EU affected representative democracy in the UK?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent have devolution and membership of the EU affected representative democracy in the UK? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Devolution
Answer
Devolution has transformed representative democracy in the UK significantly since the Labour Government introduced it after 1997. More local democracy has emerged as decisions are made closer to those affected, allowing for various policy alternatives, such as differing educational choices. However, this can be seen as a double-edged sword; while empowered local government offers more choice, it may lead to disparities akin to those seen in regional governance, where local decisions differ drastically across rural and urban areas of England.
Asymmetric devolution has also created tension regarding representation; for instance, the West Lothian Question highlights the imbalance where MPs from Scotland can vote on English matters, yet English MPs face restrictions on Scottish affairs. This discrepancy raises questions about fairness in representative democracy. The rejection of Scottish independence in September 2014 further emphasized that the current system, with Parliament retaining sovereignty, hampers the potential dismantling and reformation of the existing democracy.
Step 2
Membership of the EU
Answer
The UK's membership in the EU since January 1973 has introduced complexities to representative democracy. As laws increasingly emanate from the EU rather than the national government, this shift has sparked debates about its legitimacy and implications on local sovereignty. The principle of subsidiarity aims to ensure decisions are made as closely as possible to the citizens affected, yet the perception remains that the EU undermines the UK's democratic processes.
Moreover, the functioning of EU bodies is often criticized for lacking transparency and democratic accountability. The UK’s obligation to adhere to EU laws and treaties has nuanced representative democracy, as evidenced by the numerous debates surrounding the ratification of EU treaties. This situation indicates a growing belief that EU membership escalates the role of supranational legislation, thus influencing the structure and nature of representative democracy in the UK.