Modernising Britain. Central, devolved, federal?

Book abstract:

Central, devolved, federal - what part will these three elements play in the future governance of Britain? Control from the centre is something we have all experienced. Devolution is an experience enjoyed mainly by the Celtic fringe of the kingdom and federalism is a notion many have of European dimensions and not for consideration at home.

This work explores all these aspects and the extent to which New Labour has shown a readiness to embrace them in its plans to modernise the constitution. The book is organised in five parts comprising an introductory section, a conclusion and three substantive parts at the core of the discussion. The first of these examines the devolved institutions of the Celtic fringe - Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The second part focuses on English issues such as the GLA and the election of a Mayor of London, and the regional devolution plans for areas beyond London. The third part addresses that wider context - the federal issue and the European dimension.

The book will interest scholars and students of devolution politics.

Federal Trust books are distributed by Kogan Page.