THE independence fundamentalists were left baying, the hardline Unionists are likewise forever baying and Middle Scotland, the decisive element, was barely moved, frankly.But in amongst Nicola Sturgeon’s Holyrood intervention of April 24, there was, indeed, to my mind, a “substantive” shift in the First Minister’s position – with or without #Brexit withdrawal, as her dance … [Read more...] about A new post-Brexit UK of quasi-independent member states?
federalism
Towards a devolution backstop?
The Brexit process has undoubtedly brought about an upswing in engagement between the UK and devolved governments.Leaving aside the Joint Ministerial Committee (Europe), which since 1999 has met ahead of European Council meetings, there have been considerably more formal meetings between Scottish, Welsh and UK ministers in the 32 months since the 2016 referendum than in the … [Read more...] about Towards a devolution backstop?
Brexit lessons for #indyref2
As the Brexit negotiations have shown, the idea of true political and economic ‘independence’ in the modern age is largely an illusion. The reality is much more likely to be some form of shared sovereignty. It is a moot point whether countries within the EU are better referred to as member states of a quasi-federal, central Parliament or as nation states that share … [Read more...] about Brexit lessons for #indyref2
Brexit and the coming break-up of Britain
The United Kingdom has no written (codified) constitution.Its political structure has evolved through a series of significant events, often marked by legal documents, from Magna Carta in 1215 and the Declaration of Arbroath of 1320 via the Bill of Rights of 1689, the Act of Union between England and Scotland of 1707, the Great Reform Act of 1832 abolishing 60 “rotten … [Read more...] about Brexit and the coming break-up of Britain
The social democratic case for federalism: Sceptical Scot podcast
What is Scotland's future ? What lies ahead for Britain after Brexit? How to restore public trust in democracy – and politicians? As a new case for Scottish independence emerges and #indyref2 looms, other campaigners say it's time to debate federalism as the best route to true community empowerment. This Sceptical Scot podcast presents pro-federalist arguments … [Read more...] about The social democratic case for federalism: Sceptical Scot podcast