Comparing devolved governance

Abstract

Devolution has often been described as asymmetrical in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This book sets out to examine if developments in devolved governance, particularly since 2007, have moved towards greater symmetry. The evidence for this analysis is based on a detailed comparison of the key elements of governance in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is a comparative assessment of the treatment of each element of governance in these countries. Some of the sectors of governance examined have previously received relatively little attention, such as the Civil Service, quangos, local government, the operation of the Executives, the Scottish Parliament and the Welsh and Northern Ireland Assemblies, and the development of inter-governmental relations. Comparing Devolved Governance is a major single reference source for those seeking a comparative and comprehensive study of devolved government.