UK Union at Risk: Devolution Fuels Nationalist Sentiments in England

Strategic Insights -

The plan by Prime Minister Tony Blair to grant increased autonomy to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has backfired, analysts say, not only failing to stave off the threat of separatism but also fuelling nationalist sentiments in England itself. The union of the United Kingdom is now under threat, with many Britons worried that they will lose out when devolution takes hold. Kenneth Baker, a former Conservative Party chairman and home secretary, has expressed concern, stating, "The union of the United Kingdom is at risk of being undermined... The union has served all four countries well over the last 300 years. . . . That union is now under threat."

Key Takeaways:

  • The devolution process, aimed at granting separate parliaments for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has not only failed to address separatist sentiments but has actually fueled them, with the Scottish National Party (SNP) gaining credibility and power.
  • The SNP has surged in the polls, overtaking the Scottish Labor Party, and has become a major force in Scottish politics, with its leader, Alex Salmond, determined to use the new parliament as a vehicle to carry Scotland out of the union.
  • The potential for independence in Scotland is a growing concern, with a recent poll showing that two out of three persons believe Scotland will become independent.
  • Even if the SNP doesn't win the election, it will remain a major party and will continue to push for more power and autonomy for Scotland.
  • Nationalism is flaring in England, with residents beginning to worry they will lose out when devolution takes hold, and with the English flag bearing the cross of St. George appearing at sporting events.

Statistics:

  • 300 years: The time period during which the union of the United Kingdom has served all four countries well.
  • 2/3 of persons: The proportion who believe Scotland will become independent, according to a recent poll.
  • 300 years: The time period during which the Scottish National Party (SNP) has been campaigning for Scottish independence.

Sources:

  • Kenneth Baker, a former Conservative Party chairman and home secretary.
  • Peter Kellner, a political commentator.
  • Kevin Pringle, an SNP spokesman.
  • Bill Miller, a political science professor at Glasgow University.
  • Alex Salmond, leader of the Scottish National Party.
  • Alan Sked, a senior lecturer in international history at the London School of Economics.
  • Sinn Fein, a nationalist party in Northern Ireland.