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

Devolution has had varied impacts across the UK, particularly in Wales and Scotland, while presenting challenges for England and Northern Ireland.

Support for the View

1. Increased Powers for Wales and Scotland: Both Scotland and Wales have acquired additional powers through the Scotland Acts. These powers enable them to customize policies according to their needs, particularly in areas like health and education. In contrast, England does not have similar devolved powers.

2. Perceived Success of Devolution: Many consider devolution a success, as it has allowed both Scotland and Wales to develop distinct identities and governance structures. The establishment of the Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly has empowered local governance and enabled tailored policy responses.

3. Challenges in Northern Ireland: Conversely, Northern Ireland has faced political instability, with the suspension of Stormont between January 2017 and January 2020, which raised concerns about the effectiveness of devolution in governance.

Counterarguments

1. Limited Benefits for England: England, with no separate parliament, faces significant issues relating to the central government decisions that do not reflect regional needs. This absence of a regional structure can result in dissatisfaction among citizens regarding legislative representation.

2. Stormont's Instability: The power-sharing arrangement in Northern Ireland has proven to be fragile. The prolonged suspension of Stormont raises questions about the legitimacy and functionality of devolved governance in Northern Ireland, suggesting that devolution has not fully benefited this region.

3. Demands for Independence: The Scottish Nationalist Party advocates for further independence, which reflects a dissatisfaction with its current devolution settlement. The aspiration for independence points to potential flaws in how devolution has fulfilled regional aspirations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, devolution has positively impacted Wales and Scotland by allowing for regional governance and identity. However, it has not been as beneficial for Northern Ireland due to ongoing political instability. England's situation, lacking a separate parliament, remains unaddressed and may contribute to a growing sense of regional discontent.