Constitutional debates can often sneak up on us in ways we least expect. Looking back over the last decade in UK politics, the referenda in Scotland and on membership of the European Union came about unexpectedly, with a surprise electoral majority … [Read more...] about Reporting the Divide: Lessons for any Future Referendum
Referendum
Answering tricky questions: Labour and Citizens’ Assemblies
A few sentences in Tom Baldwin’s new 400-page biography of Keir Starmer caused quite a stir recently. They had little to do with the life of the Labour leader, and more to do with how an incoming Labour government would find solutions to … [Read more...] about Answering tricky questions: Labour and Citizens’ Assemblies
Does ‘no’ mean ‘not now’? Exploring the perceived legitimacy of repeat referenda
Referenda have been a controversial topic in the UK for the past decade and some of the most heated debate has revolved around the issue of repeating a referendum. In what circumstances is it legitimate to push for a second referendum on a topic? How … [Read more...] about Does ‘no’ mean ‘not now’? Exploring the perceived legitimacy of repeat referenda
Securing Scotland’s independence: moving beyond process?
On June 28th, Nicola Sturgeon set out her “route map” for securing Scotland’s independence, setting a date for a second independence referendum to be held on 19 October 2023. Her “Plan A” remains a consensual referendum, following the precedent … [Read more...] about Securing Scotland’s independence: moving beyond process?