Pros and Cons - Debbie Newman, Ben Woolgar 2014

English Parliament
Section I. United Kingdom issues

Since the establishment of the Scottish Parliament and the Assemblies in Northern Ireland and Wales, there has been a discussion of whether England also needs its own parliament or whether Westminster is adequate representation.

Pros

[1] A parliament for England would be democratic and fair. The other three regions have their own parliament and this would give England equal status. It would also nullify the ’West Lothian question’ where Scottish and Welsh MPs vote on English-only issues.

[2] It would be better for Westminster. There would be more time to work on truly UK-wide issues such as the economy, defence and foreign affairs.

[3] England does have its own distinct culture and traditions separate from its UK identity, and the English deserve some degree of home rule.

Cons

[1] England is fully represented through Westminster and it is unnecessary to create another level of bureaucracy.

[2] Westminster would be marginalised and there would be a lack of joined-up thinking, especially if different parties were in control of the two parliaments. For example, education policy is not independent from economic policy.

[3] There is no language, culture or heritage that is under threat from Westminster. The English can enjoy their traditions without the need for an expensive and unnecessary new parliament. Also, home rule should be a response to a demand from within a nation. There is not the public support in England for this measure and it should not be forced upon the people.

Possible motions

This House supports the creation of an English Parliament.

This House would devolve power from Westminster to England.

Related topics

Scottish independence

Democracy