UK Conservatives to Review Devolution Powers
Kemi Badenoch signals potential rollback of powers for Scottish Parliament if party wins next election.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch plans to initiate a review of devolution, which could lead to the withdrawal of certain powers from the Scottish Parliament if her party wins the next general election. This strategy aims to counter perceived failings by the Scottish National Party (SNP) in areas such as health, education, energy, and the economy.
Insiders suggest that the review will explore stripping Holyrood of some of its current authorities if doing so is deemed beneficial for the governance of Scotland and the United Kingdom. This approach marks a departure from the previous 'devolve and forget' strategy adopted by earlier Conservative governments.
The proposal has garnered support from the Scottish Conservatives. A senior member of Badenoch's team stated, "We will review the Scotland Act and consider withdrawing powers if it would ensure better governance of the UK." The policy is currently under development by her shadow cabinet and could become a significant issue during the next general election campaign in Scotland.
Under the current framework, the Scotland Act 1998 initially set out the powers of the Scottish Parliament, with further transfers occurring in 2012 and 2016. Devolved powers for Holyrood include health, education, the environment, significant aspects of the tax and benefits systems, planning, and the economy. Reserved powers, remaining with the Westminster Parliament, encompass defense, foreign affairs, national security, and the constitution.
A Scottish Conservative source indicated support for the review, citing concerns about educational standards in Scotland compared to England. "Education is an area we have been raising concerns about because of the gap between Scotland and England and Michael Gove offered to share details of his approach in England. Broadly, we would support this. We would look to work closely with the UK party on this," the source said.
The UK Parliament retains ultimate sovereignty and the right to legislate on all matters, including devolved areas. However, the Sewel Convention dictates that Westminster typically does not legislate on devolved matters without the consent of the relevant devolved administration.
Recent devolution has granted the Scottish Parliament powers over income tax and welfare benefits, including disability payments and universal credit. This has led to a divergence in income tax rates, with individuals earning over £33,493 paying more in Scotland than in the rest of the UK. Spending on benefits in Scotland is also projected to increase significantly.
Badenoch has previously expressed criticism of administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, stating that her team will not allow them to "rip the United Kingdom apart." She has also asserted that the Conservatives offer a "common sense" alternative in Scotland, emphasizing a desire to improve the nation's governance.