English votes for English laws: Tories aim to rush devolution plans through Parliament
Jessica’s thoughtful article on what devolution might mean for England generated a large number of responses, including one speaking up for a separate Cornwall. This week Eric Pickles has been in the forefront of the news with his “more for less local” authority budget settlement (imposition) and his proposal, as per the article above, to gnaw away at the democratic legitimacy of elected local authority representatives to make decisions. You will not be surprised that my mind has turned to the need for greater devolution to local authorities, not more financial prescription from Westminster – and whilst were at it what about communities of interest in addition to local communities – any takers for an English Rural Parliament akin the one recently launched in Scotland?? This article which focuses on English perspectives represents what in my mind is still too Westminster focused a debate. It tells us:
David Cameron and other top Conservatives have been urged by their MPs to bring in “English votes for English laws” speedily to avert a voter backlash against the devolution of extra powers to Scotland, after the announcement of proposals for major constitutional reform.
William Hague, the Commons Leader, yesterday detailed three options being considered by the party to restrict the right of Scottish MPs to vote on legislation affecting only England.
But he immediately faced pressure from senior backbenchers to implement rapid change to give English MPs full authority over English matters.
David Cameron put the issue of “English votes for English laws” onto the political agenda immediately after Scotland voted against independence and was promised more authority over tax, spending and welfare.