UK devolved system ‘must change’

The current system of intergovernmental relations between the devolved administrations and the UK is “not fit for purpose” and should be changed, MPs have heard.

Experts were split on whether the joint ministerial committees between the UK Government and the devolved administrations should be given decision-making powers.

Those in favour said they were particularly needed regarding UK-wide common frameworks being brought in on devolved matters following Brexit.

Professor Nicola McEwen, of Edinburgh University, told Westminster’s Scottish affairs committee there is a problem with the current intergovernmental relationship.

She said: “The system is not fit for purpose, particularly in the context of Brexit. However, I also think it is not completely broken and there are things that can be done to make it more effective, more accountable.”

She said “significant changes” are required, adding: “There is a case for introducing a decision-making function, particularly around common frameworks, particularly around areas that may have an impact on both retained and devolved matters simultaneously, like trade or international agreements or governing the internal market.”

Akash Paun from the Institute for Government agreed the joint ministerial committee system should be reformed not replaced and that it needs a clearer decision-making function.

The two other experts giving evidence – the Law Society of Scotland’s Michael Clancy and Jim Gallagher from the Centre on Constitutional Change – disagreed, saying these powers are not needed.

“It is not and cannot be an authoritative decision-making body because each of the governments has their own democratic mandate,” Mr Gallagher said.

The Glasgow University professor added that “things aren’t as bad as you might think” in terms of intergovernmental relations, saying the joint ministerial committee system has been “surprisingly robust”.

He warned the current state of Brexit preparations would stretch system “beyond breaking point”. the the

Picture: PA. Professor Jim Gallagher issued a warning over the preparations for Brexit.