Introduction

You should begin by identifying the issues raised by the question and explaining what is meant by devolution in the context of a unitary state. You should emphasize that devolution is the process by which the central organs of government delegate executive and legislative power to subordinate regional organs of government. You should refer to the fact that in the UK there are differences in the way devolution has been carried out in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Scotland

Focus on Pt II Scotland Act 1998 and the executive powers of the Scottish Government consisting of:

• the First Minister;

• the Scottish Ministers; and

• the Scottish Law Officers.

Wales

Focus on ss 52-55 Government of Wales Act 1998 and the Government of Wales Act 2006. You should then discuss the main powers and structure of the Welsh Assembly Government.

Northern Ireland

You should focus on the following points.

The head of the executive in Northern Ireland is the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland acting on behalf of the reigning monarch.

Executive powers within Northern Ireland are exercised by the Northern Ireland Executive, the members of which are appointed by the Secretary of State. The Northern Ireland Act 1998 contained provisions concerning the government of Northern Ireland including the creation of the Northern Ireland Assembly. This was suspended by the Northern Ireland Act 2000.

Plans to restore a devolved executive in Northern Ireland are contained in the Northern Ireland Act 2006. The Northern Ireland institutions, including the Northern Ireland Assembly, were suspended in October 2002. Government proposals, incorporated in this Act, involved bringing together Assembly members to participate in a process to select a Northern Ireland Executive, comprising a First Minister, a deputy First Minister, and Northern Ireland Ministers.