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Devolution Knowledge Check

The document is a homework sheet for AQA A Level Politics focusing on devolution in the UK. It includes definitions of key concepts, descriptions of devolved institutions, reasons for devolution, its impact, and its relation to the UK constitution. Additionally, it contains exam-style questions to assess understanding of the topic.

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6 views3 pages

Devolution Knowledge Check

The document is a homework sheet for AQA A Level Politics focusing on devolution in the UK. It includes definitions of key concepts, descriptions of devolved institutions, reasons for devolution, its impact, and its relation to the UK constitution. Additionally, it contains exam-style questions to assess understanding of the topic.

Uploaded by

v97594776
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

AQA A Level Politics – Devolution Homework Sheet

1. Key Concepts
Define the following terms in 1–2 sentences each:

1. Devolution

2. Asymmetrical devolution

3. Primary legislative powers

4. Secondary legislative powers

5. Reserved powers

6. Transferred powers

7. The Sewel Convention

2. The UK’s Devolved Institutions


a) Match the institution to its description (write A–D):

Institutions:

- Scottish Parliament

- Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru)

- Northern Ireland Assembly

- Greater London Authority (GLA)

Descriptions:

A. Has primary legislative powers and tax-varying powers, including income tax variation.

B. Exercises devolved powers over transport, planning, and strategic city governance.

C. Shares power between unionist and nationalist parties through mandatory power-sharing.

D. Has primary law-making powers in devolved areas but limited tax powers.

b) Short-Answer Questions (1–2 sentences each):


1. What does it mean that the Scottish Parliament uses the reserved powers model?

2. Why was devolution to Northern Ireland designed around power-sharing?

3. What change in 2011 expanded the Senedd’s authority?

4. What powers does the Mayor of London have that other English regions do not?

3. Reasons for Devolution


Answer the following in 2–3 sentences each:

1. Why was devolution introduced in the late 1990s?

2. How did national identity play a role in the case of Scotland?

3. Why is devolution seen as a way to improve democratic representation?

4. Impact of Devolution
a) Briefly explain the impact of devolution on:

1. Policy divergence within the UK

2. The governance of England

3. The strength of the union

b) Provide one example of policy divergence for each nation:

- Scotland:

- Wales:

- Northern Ireland:

5. Devolution and the UK Constitution


Answer in 2–3 sentences:

1. Why does devolution not threaten parliamentary sovereignty?

2. How does the Sewel Convention shape the relationship between Westminster and devolved
legislatures?

3. Why is devolution often described as “incomplete” or “uneven”?

6. Exam-Style Knowledge Check


Answer briefly:
1. State two arguments for further devolution in England.

2. State two arguments against an English Parliament.

3. Give one reason why some argue devolution has strengthened the union.

4. Give one reason why some argue devolution has weakened the union.

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