The four constituent nations of the United Kingdom exist within a unitary state which is not underpinned by the transparent checks and balances of a formal written constitution. Many are appalled when they realise that the UK’s uncodified … [Read more...] about Renewing Intergovernmental Relations: The Case for Reform
Devolution
Devolution and the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement: a stuttering failure?
This week marks the 25th anniversary of the momentous Belfast/Good Friday Agreement (GFA) that – among other things – helped to bring to a close the violence of “The Troubles” and established a series of new, interlocking institutions to govern … [Read more...] about Devolution and the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement: a stuttering failure?
Conference review – A crisis in UK democracy?
In 1647 the Putney Debates brought people together to discuss the future of democracy following the victory of the Parliamentarians in the English Civil War. On 24th March 2023, The Constitution Society brought together academics and constitutional … [Read more...] about Conference review – A crisis in UK democracy?
Post-Brexit Britain needs an ambitious Bill of Rights rooted in integrity and purpose
When I was commissioned by The Constitution Society in July 2022 to write a report on the UK Government’s proposed ‘Modern’ Bill of Rights Bill, I would not have anticipated that by January 2023 the Bill would have been shelved under a new Prime … [Read more...] about Post-Brexit Britain needs an ambitious Bill of Rights rooted in integrity and purpose
Can Labour do constitutional reform again?
With the Conservatives in political difficulty, Labour doing well in the polls, but a hung parliament possible in autumn 2024, policies emerging from the opposition will be heavily scrutinized. In December 2022, Labour’s Commission on the UK’s … [Read more...] about Can Labour do constitutional reform again?
Constitutional change is unfinished business in the UK
Some believe that discussion of constitutional matters amounts to little more than a diversion from people’s real concerns, such as the cost-of-living crisis, jobs and the parlous state of the health service. However, it is misleading to suggest … [Read more...] about Constitutional change is unfinished business in the UK
It is now necessary for the UK to move towards a UK-wide Constitutional Convention
With Nicola Sturgeon having recently addressed the Scottish Parliament about her plans for a second independence referendum, and the Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales, established by the Welsh Government, currently … [Read more...] about It is now necessary for the UK to move towards a UK-wide Constitutional Convention