Question

Difficulty: EasyDevolved Powers in Scotland

The Scottish Parliament, which meets at Holyrood in Edinburgh, has the authority to legislate on several areas known as 'devolved powers'. Which of the following is an example of a devolved power in Scotland?

  1. Health and social servicesAnswer
  2. B
    Defence
  3. C
    Immigration
  4. D
    Foreign affairs

Answer

Health and social services is a devolved power in Scotland.
Health and social services is a devolved power because the Scottish Parliament has the authority to make laws in this area. This allows Scotland to have its own policies on how the NHS and social work are delivered locally.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the concept of 'devolved powers'
Devolved powers are specific areas where the Scottish Parliament has the legal right to make its own laws and policies.
This establishes the criteria for selecting the correct answer.
2
Differentiate between local/social services and national/security matters
Matters like health, education, and law are typically devolved, while 'big picture' national matters like defence and foreign policy are reserved.
This is the primary way the Life in the UK test distinguishes between the powers of Westminster and Holyrood.
3
Select the option that matches a devolved category
Health and social services is identified as a devolved power.
It matches the established list of devolved responsibilities in the Official Handbook.

Key Concept

The distinction between devolved powers (managed locally in Scotland) and reserved powers (managed by the UK government at Westminster).
Estimated Time:45s
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