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Difficulty: MediumThe Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers

The UK's system of government uses a framework of devolution where the UK Parliament at Westminster retains authority over specific policy areas that affect the entire country. Which of the following is an example of a 'reserved' power held by the UK Parliament?

  1. Economic policy and the currencyAnswer
  2. B
    Housing and land use
  3. C
    Local government and council services
  4. D
    Social services and social work

Answer

Economic policy and the currency is a reserved power because it is a matter of national importance that affects the United Kingdom as a whole.
The correct answer is correct because economic policy and the currency are 'reserved matters' that remain the responsibility of the UK Parliament at Westminster for the entire United Kingdom. These areas are not transferred to the devolved administrations to maintain a unified national economy.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the definition of a reserved power.
Reserved powers are areas of policy that remain the sole responsibility of the UK Parliament at Westminster.
Understanding the distinction between central and regional authority is necessary to categorize policy areas correctly.
2
Differentiate between policies that impact one specific nation and those that impact the entire Union.
Matters like currency and the economy have a UK-wide impact, whereas housing, local government, and social services are managed locally within each devolved nation.
This logical distinction helps determine which powers have been transferred (devolved) and which have been kept (reserved).

Key Concept

The distinction between Reserved and Devolved powers in the UK constitutional framework.

Alternative Method

Recall the 'Big Three' categories often reserved: Defense/Foreign Affairs, Currency, and Constitutional matters.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

The Concept of Devolution and Reserved Powers