Has Devolution Made a Difference?

Book excerpt: This book is the fourth volume of a major five-year research programme on devolution funded by the Leverhulme Trust. The programme comprises eleven Constitution Unit research projects, underwritten by a regular series of monitoring reports. This book provides a stock-take of the effect of devolution during the first term of the Scottish Parliament and National Assembly for Wales. Part 1 covers the territories of the UK - Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the English regions. Part 2 looks at its impact on the centre Westminster, Whitehall and public opinion. Part 3 looks at developments in two key areas of public policy. The book as a whole assesses not just how parts of the UK have been affected by devolution, but also its effect on the UK as a whole. Written by the Constitution Unit at University College London and the leading experts in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the book is packed with facts and figures, and is essential reading for those who want to keep bang up to date with the latest developments.