Notes from Lecture
Lecture Title: Will the United Kingdom break up?
Lecturer’s Name: Gavin Rae
In the form of four points summarise the most interesting ideas, concepts, and theories presented by
the speaker and reflect on them (point 5) by writing how you could use them in your own academic
or professional practice. You should write about 400 words. Make sure you read Originality
Statement before you start writing. If you used generative AI tools, you cited them and included your
first draft, the exact prompt you used, and the AI’s response in an Appendix.
1. The United Kingdom's Complex Composition
2. The Function of Devolution in Wales and Scotland
3. How Brexit Affects Unity in the UK
4. Northern Ireland's Past and Present Difficulties
5. Reflection and Application
1. The United Kingdom's Complex Composition
The United Kingdom, which consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, is a unique
state. England, Scotland, and Wales are collectively referred to as Great Britain, although Northern
Ireland is also included in the UK. While Northern Irish people can be both British and Irish, citizens
of England, Scotland, and Wales are British. Although this piece depicts a historical union, the
political, cultural, and ethnic divisions still have an impact on the course of the nation.
2. The Function of Devolution in Wales and Scotland
In the UK, devolution is a key issue, especially for Scotland and Wales. Both nations were granted
limited self-governance through their separate assemblies following referendums in 1999. While the
UK parliament still has authority over reserved matters, the Scottish parliament can enact laws on
devolved issues that impact day-to-day living. Scotland and Wales can solve regional issues under this
arrangement and remain part of the union.
3. How Brexit Affects Unity in the UK
The UK's exit from the European Union, or Brexit, has widened already-existing rifts. England and
Wales tended towards leaving the EU, whereas Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay. Fearing
that a hard border with the Republic of Ireland would rekindle old tensions, Catholic Nationalists in
Northern Ireland opposed Brexit. In an attempt to allay these worries, the Northern Ireland Protocol
created a trade barrier in the Irish Sea, which made unity much more difficult.
4. Northern Ireland's Past and Present Difficulties
Due to Ireland's 1922 division, Northern Ireland has a very divided society. The Good Friday
Agreement in 1998 helped to lessen the tensions between Catholic Nationalists and Protestant
Loyalists, which were known as The Troubles. However, because of lingering tensions over identity
and governance, the effects of Brexit pose a threat to this fragile balance.
5. Reflection and Application
These insights underline the importance of understanding historical, cultural, and political contexts in
managing contemporary issues. This knowledge could enhance my approach to conflict resolution,
particularly in multicultural or divided environments. Devolution and Brexit highlight the complexity
of balancing regional autonomy with national unity. Additionally, Northern Ireland’s experience with
reconciliation offers a model for addressing divisions, emphasizing dialogue, compromise, and
inclusive governance. Studying the UK’s struggles with identity and cohesion helps my ability to
navigate challenges in diverse settings effectively.
Originality Statement
I confirm that I wrote the work on my own, in my own words, without anyone else’s help. I
did not use any generative AI tools.
☐ I confirm that I wrote the work on my own, in my own words, without anyone else’s help. I used
generative AI tools, I cited them and included my first draft, the exact prompt I used, and the AI’s
response in an appendix.
☐ I confirm that I wrote the work on my own, in my own words, without anyone else’s help. I used
generative AI tools, but I did not cite them, after consulting my teacher.
Appendix
