Abstracts » Business, international

Undoing Britain?

Article Abstract:

British prime minister, Tony Blair, is seeking to change the British constitution through a dozen bills over a two-year period. The cumulative impact of the bills is revolutionary. Blair's opponents argue that the unity of Britain is under threat from devolution. There was a need for reform when Blair gained power, and the problem is not that he has made changes, but that he appears to be a reluctant reformer, with centralising instincts. Some of his reforms have been half-hearted, and there is a need for greater commitment.

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The centre cannot hold

Article Abstract:

The United Kingdom government is introducing changes to central government as well as devolution for Scotland and other regions and nations. There have been calls for a separate parliament for England, and for measures to prevent Scottish MPs from voting on bills relating to England. Regional parliaments could also be set up in England. Other possible changes include an elected senate arising from reform of the House of Lords, and the setting up of a supreme court which is separate from Parliament.

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Robert Cranbourne's Maxim gun

Article Abstract:

There are plans to reform the United Kingdom House of Lords and these are opposed by Robert, Viscount Cranborne, Conservative leader and hereditary peer. He claims that he does not oppose the expulsion of hereditary peers, but that he is concerned as to where a second chamber replacing the existing arrangements would be truly independent. There is a need to ensure that reforms are carried out, and it is unclear whether an hereditary peer is the best person to press for reform.

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