Developments in devolution

Donald Dewar, the chief architect of Scottish devolution, is reported to have said that devoution is a process, not an event. News emerging this week serves only to confirm this.

I put the finishing touches to an article for tutor2u’s first past the post magazine this week which examines the impact of ten years of devolution. As part of the conclusion I have indulged in a little crystal ball gazing:

“In the short term, Scotland looks set to remain in the union, but Holyrood will undoubtedly gain increased control over tax. As Professor Anthony King has said of the Scottish Parliament, there is no other assembly in the world where there is such a great divergence between its powers to tax and spend. Greater fiscal autonomy would therefore weaken the perception among many Scots that they have what Billy Connolly called a “pretendy parliament”.”

The BBC website reports today that a review of the Scottish Parliament’s powers may usher in these changes sooner rather than later:

“Powers on speed and drink-drive limits as well as air weapons could be handed to Scotland, the Calman Commission devolution review is expected to say.

The BBC has learned the body’s final report will also recommend MSPs take charge of setting income tax, stamp duty and air passenger duty.

The commission, voted in at Holyrood by Scotland’s main opposition parties, has also been supported by UK ministers.

The review is to deliver its final report on Monday.

It is also expected to back borrowing powers for the Scottish Government.”