The British system of government has for many years been one of the most centralised in Europe. Many more matters are decided at the national level than in Germany or Belgium, for example, where an effective level of regional government has been established.
Recent years have seen steps towards regional government, notably in Scotland and Wales but also on a smaller scale in England. But treating regional and national authorities as representatives of Westminster rather than representatives of the people in the areas concerned does not really change very much.
A federal system would be much better.
In England, some form of sub-national authorities (perhaps the existing regions, perhaps something else) would be directly elected and exercise clearly defined powers. Most of these powers would be drawn from those currently exercised by Whitehall. Such a system could bring the citizens closer to the decisions which most affect their lives. The power of distant bureaucrats would be reduced.
The links below lead to more information on the following subjects.
Latest Contributions
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The United Kingdom: All Change after the Scottish Referendum? (21 October 2014)
17.00 for 17.30 until 19.00, followed by a reception Room MG1-02 London Metropolitan University 84 Moorgate London EC2M 6SQ Map “The Vow” to devolve more powers to Scotland, made by […]
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The Daily Telegraph should make its mind up
There is a marvellous article by Allister Heath in the Daily Telegraph today, outlining an alternative to Scottish independence. For Scotland to vote to leave the United Kingdom would cause […]
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Local government pause for thought
It has long been a contention of this website that democracy should be thought of not merely as a set of rules but as a culture. While elections and elected […]