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

In assessing the view that devolution has been beneficial for Wales and Scotland, but not for England and Northern Ireland, it's important to explore various dimensions of the argument.

Benefits for Wales and Scotland

Both Wales and Scotland have accrued additional powers through their respective devolved parliaments, allowing for increased autonomy in areas such as health, education, and local governance. This greater self-determination is generally perceived as a success. For instance, the implementation of laws specific to the local context in these regions reflects an ability to address the unique needs of their populations.

The Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly also have the authority to execute referendums about independence, showcasing a commitment to self-governance. Moreover, the political landscape in Scotland has encouraged civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.

Limited Devolution in England and Northern Ireland

In contrast, England lacks a separate devolved parliament, which raises questions about representation. The absence of a distinct mechanism for local governance for English regions can be perceived as a democratic deficit. Furthermore, Northern Ireland has faced significant challenges, including the long suspension of its Assembly, which occurred from January 2017 to January 2020, thereby limiting the capacity for local decision-making.

Points of Agreement

1. Power Gains: Scotland and Wales have both gained additional powers, notably in health and education.
2. Success of Devolution: Devolution is generally regarded as a positive move for both nations, allowing them more influence over local issues.
3. Conflict Resolution: Stormont, the Northern Ireland Assembly, has normalised political life post-conflict, yet its capacity to govern has been undermined by prolonged suspensions.

Points of Disagreement

1. Satisfaction of Devolution: Devolution has not fully satisfied demands for independence in Scotland, where parties still push for referendums, especially after Brexit.
2. Power Disparities: The Welsh Parliament has fewer powers compared to Scotland, leading to a sense of inequity in governance.
3. Need for English Devolution: England’s lack of a separate parliament raises questions about the need for devolution within its regions, with critics arguing against the necessity of established regional governance.

In conclusion, while devolution has indeed been beneficial for Wales and Scotland, the case for England and Northern Ireland presents a more complex picture. The argument that devolution has solely been a positive force is nuanced by the challenges faced in Northern Ireland and the lack of a representative mechanism in England, suggesting that the benefits of devolution are not uniformly experienced across the UK.