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18-03-2026-Exam Plan

Wednesday, 18 March 2026

government-and-politics paper-1 european-union informal homework exam-information

1. ‘Devolution is a largely irrelevant process, with all significant powers still in the hands of Westminster.’ Analyse and evaluate this statement.

  • Example: Parliament can legislate on devolved matters and abolish devolved bodies.
  • AO2: This is constitutionally decisive - it means devolution exists only by permission of Westminster, limiting its overall importance.

Significance

2) Devolved bodies control key domestic policy

  • Example: Scotland controls health, education, justice.
  • AO2: Direct impact on citizens’ daily lives - policy variation (e.g. free prescriptions in Scotland) shows real autonomy.

Effect

3) Financial dependence on Westminster

  • Example: Barnett Formula determines most funding.
  • AO2: Limited fiscal powers cause reliance on central government, restricting genuine independence in decision-making.

Cause

Judgement

Devolution is not irrelevant due to its clear effects on policy and politics. However, its significance is constrained by Westminster’s continued legal and financial control. Overall, it is important but limited.

2. ‘Devolution has begun a process of the break-up of the United Kingdom.’ Analyse and evaluate this statement.

1) Rise of nationalist movements

  • Example: SNP dominance; 2014 referendum.
  • AO2: Devolution provided institutions and legitimacy that enabled nationalism to grow stronger.

Cause

2) Brexit has deepened divisions

  • Example: Scotland voted Remain, UK voted Leave.
  • AO2: Created political divergence between nations, increasing support for independence.

Effect

3) Asymmetrical devolution

  • Example: Scotland more powerful than Wales; no English parliament.
  • AO2: Unequal arrangements create dissatisfaction and constitutional imbalance across the UK.

Cause

Judgement

Devolution has clearly contributed to pressures for break-up, especially through nationalism and Brexit. However, its significance is mixed, as it also stabilises the union and legal barriers remain strong. Overall, it signals strain rather than inevitable collapse.