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

To evaluate the view that devolution has been good for Wales and Scotland but not for England and Northern Ireland, we can begin by considering the case of Wales and Scotland.

Support for the View

1. Increased Power and Devolution: Both Wales and Scotland have gained additional powers through their respective assemblies. This has allowed them to make decisions on various local issues, which many argue empowers their governance and brings it closer to the people. For instance, the Welsh Assembly has had control over health, education, and local government since its establishment.

2. Success Indicators: Devolution is generally viewed as a success for both regions. For example, Scotland has seen significant devolved powers since the Scotland Act 1998, including taxation powers and the ability to legislate on numerous fronts. The presence of a strong national identity has also allowed these regions to prosper culturally and politically.

3. Long-term Governance Issues in Northern Ireland: In contrast, Northern Ireland's devolved government has faced many challenges, including long periods of suspension, such as between January 2017 and January 2020. This instability suggests that devolution has not worked as well for Northern Ireland as it has for Scotland and Wales.

Counterarguments

1. Questions of Satisfaction and Power Gaps: Critics argue that devolution has not been entirely beneficial. There is a perception that devolution for these regions, particularly Scotland, has fostered a growing nationalistic sentiment that could threaten the union. Additionally, the powers granted may not be sufficient to tackle all local issues effectively.

2. Lack of Devolution in England: England has not received devolution in the same way, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement among its citizens. The lack of a separate parliament means that decisions affecting England are made at Westminster, which can overlook local needs and contexts.

3. Northern Ireland’s Unique Context: Northern Ireland’s situation is further complicated by its historical and political context, where devolution has normalized conflict rather than resolved it. The suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly shows the fragility of its governance and the lack of consistent leadership compared to Scotland and Wales.

Conclusion In conclusion, while devolution has generally been beneficial for Wales and Scotland, improving governance and community engagement, the same cannot be said for Northern Ireland, where political instability has hindered its effectiveness. Moreover, England’s lack of devolution raises crucial questions about representation and governance in the UK. Recognizing these complexities allows for a nuanced understanding of the impacts of devolution across different regions.