UK Parliament / Open data

Devolution and the Union

Proceeding contribution from Alan Reid (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Commons on Thursday, 20 November 2014. It occurred during Backbench debate on Devolution and the Union.

Clearly, there is an issue that affects Northern Ireland. It is responsible for a great deal of spending, but has no tax-raising powers by itself. I am not in favour of devolving welfare to Scotland, but it is already devolved to Northern Ireland. Perhaps the Northern Ireland experience is an indication of why it is not a good idea to devolve welfare.

Where I part company from the movers of the motion is that I think there is no need to hold up the Smith commission process in order to have a review of the whole UK. On the eve of the referendum, the leadership of the three main parties made a vow, and it is essential that that vow is adhered to; what was promised must be delivered.

2.25 pm

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
588 c483 
Session
2014-15
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
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