Interparliamentary Relations and the Future of Devolution in the UK 1998-2018: Unravelling Threads?

Interparliamentary Relations and the Future of Devolution in the UK examines the political dynamics of interparliamentary relations in the UK, particularly in light of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic, and explores the future of devolution in the country.

Format: Hardback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

Interparliamentary Relations and the Future of Devolution in the UK offers a comprehensive political analysis of interparliamentary relations in a period when devolved legislatures are increasingly asserting their influence. The book provides the necessary context to understand the current complexities in UK politics, particularly in response to critical events such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. Margaret Arnott highlights how tensions between competing narratives about the future of devolution in the UK, particularly regarding the future relationship of the devolved nations to the UK, were evident in contemporary political narratives.

Written during a time of heightened political debates and the growing skepticism towards traditional democratic models, Interparliamentary Relations and the Future of Devolution in the UK fills a crucial gap in academic literature by examining both the collective future of UK governance and the individual nations that make it up. The book explores the dynamics between the UK Parliament and the devolved legislatures, examining how they interact, cooperate, and compete in shaping the country's political landscape.

One of the key themes of the book is the evolving nature of devolution in the UK. The authors argue that devolution has become more complex and multifaceted, with devolved nations now having a greater say in decision-making processes at the national level. However, this increased influence has also led to tensions and disagreements between the different levels of government, particularly over issues such as funding, policy priorities, and the distribution of powers.

The book also examines the role of the UK Parliament in the context of devolution. While the Parliament has traditionally been seen as the supreme legislative body in the UK, it has also taken on a more consultative and collaborative role in recent years. The authors argue that the Parliament needs to be more responsive to the demands and concerns of the devolved nations and work towards finding a balance between the collective interests of the UK and the individual needs of the devolved regions.

Another important theme of the book is the impact of Brexit on interparliamentary relations and devolution in the UK. The authors argue that Brexit has created a new political landscape, with the UK's relationship with the EU changing significantly. This has led to increased uncertainty and complexity in the devolution process, particularly over issues such as the future of the UK's membership in the EU and the distribution of powers between the UK and the devolved nations.

The book also explores the potential for further devolution in the UK in the future. The authors argue that there is still room for devolution to expand and evolve, particularly in areas such as health, education, and social welfare. However, this will require a willingness on the part of the UK government to devolve more powers and resources to the devolved nations and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable political system.

In conclusion, Interparliamentary Relations and the Future of Devolution in the UK is a valuable contribution to the academic literature on devolution and interparliamentary relations. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of devolution in the UK, considering the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By examining the dynamics between the UK Parliament and the devolved legislatures, the book offers insights into the future of UK governance and the individual nations that form it. The book is particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of effective collaboration and coordination between the different levels of government in responding to national crises.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802625523