Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumThe Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers

Under the UK's constitutional framework, the transfer of certain legislative powers to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland is known as devolution. Despite this arrangement, the UK Parliament at Westminster retains exclusive authority over 'reserved' matters. Which of the following is a 'reserved' power that remains under the control of the UK Parliament?

  1. Defense and foreign affairsAnswer
  2. B
    Education and training
  3. C
    Health and social services
  4. D
    Local government and planning

Answer

Defense and foreign affairs is a reserved power that remains under the control of the UK Parliament.
The UK Parliament at Westminster retains authority over 'reserved' matters, which are policy areas that affect the United Kingdom as a whole. According to the official handbook, defense and foreign affairs are primary examples of reserved powers, along with immigration, social security, and taxation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the distinction between devolved and reserved powers in the UK system.
Devolved powers are transferred to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while reserved powers are kept by the UK Parliament at Westminster.
Understanding the constitutional split is necessary to categorize specific policy areas correctly.
2
Evaluate which policy areas affect the UK as a whole versus those that are domestic to individual nations.
Matters like defense and foreign affairs require a single national strategy, whereas education and health are typically managed locally.
Reserved powers usually cover national security, economy, and international relations.
3
Select the option that matches the criteria for a reserved power.
Defense and foreign affairs is the only option listed that is a reserved power according to the 'Life in the United Kingdom' handbook.
The other options (education, health, local government) are all examples of devolved powers.

Key Concept

The UK Parliament at Westminster retains authority over 'reserved' matters (like defense and foreign affairs), while 'devolved' matters (like education and health) are handled by the parliaments and assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question

Topics

The Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers