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Question

Difficulty: MediumThe Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers

While the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland manage many aspects of daily life, certain policy areas remain under the control of the UK Parliament in Westminster. Which of the following is an example of a 'reserved' power that the UK Parliament continues to manage for the whole of the UK?

  1. Social securityAnswer
  2. B
    Health services
  3. C
    Education
  4. D
    Environmental protection

Answer

Social security is a reserved power held by the UK Parliament.
The correct answer is social security because it is a policy area that has not been transferred to the devolved governments; it remains a 'reserved' power under the authority of the UK Parliament in Westminster to ensure consistency across the United Kingdom.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core concept of the question.
The question asks for a 'reserved' power, which is a policy area kept by the UK Parliament at Westminster rather than being transferred to Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
Understanding the distinction between devolved and reserved powers is essential for the Life in the UK test.
2
Categorize the options based on the devolution rules.
Health, education, and the environment are matters managed locally by the devolved administrations. Social security (benefits and state pensions) is a matter that affects the UK as a whole.
Reserved powers typically involve national policy, defense, foreign affairs, and major economic systems like social security.

Key Concept

Reserved vs. Devolved Powers
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Topics

The Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers