In the late 1990s, the UK government implemented significant constitutional reforms leading to the creation of devolved administrations. While the processes in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland all involved public votes, which of the following features uniquely distinguished the 1998 Good Friday Agreement (Belfast Agreement) from the devolution processes in Scotland and Wales?
- It required approval through public referendums held in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.Answer
- BIt was the only constitutional reform of the 1990s that required a public referendum to be held before implementation.
- CIt granted the new legislative body the power to vary income tax, a power that was withheld from the Scottish Parliament.
- DIt gave the Northern Ireland Assembly full control over reserved matters such as defense and foreign policy.
Answer
The Good Friday Agreement was unique because it required approval through public referendums held in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
The 1998 Good Friday Agreement (or Belfast Agreement) was distinct because it was a peace treaty that required democratic approval on both sides of the Irish border. This meant simultaneous referendums were held in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which is a unique requirement not found in the devolution processes for Scotland or Wales.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Asymmetric Devolution and the Good Friday Agreement
Practice More
Review the specific 'reserved' vs 'devolved' powers listed in the 1998 Acts to better understand the differences between the three administrations.
Estimated Time:2m 0s