Devolution: after the Scottish referendum
This page provides information about proposals for further devolution to Scotland and discussions over the implications for England.
New powers: what has been proposed?
During the referendum campaign the three main UK parties committed to further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament. This briefing traces the commitment to a 'timetable' and summarises substantive new powers proposed by each party.
English votes on English laws
- The McKay Commission: Report of the Commission on the consequences of devolution for the House of Commons
- The West Lothian question
The position of MPs from devolved areas voting on laws for England has come into focus. The McKay Commission made proposals for change in 2013. It argued that decisions at the United Kingdom level with a separate and distinct effect for England should normally be taken only with the consent of a majority of MPs for constituncies in England. Known as the 'West Lothian Question', this issue, and efforts to resolve it, have a long history.
Referendum
In the Scottish Independence Referendum held on 18 September 2014, the question 'Should Scotland be an independent country?' was rejected by 55.3% to 44.7%. This briefing presents information on the votes cast and the electorate in each referendum counting area and on opinion polls in the lead-up to the referendum.