How Does Devolution Benefits Scotland

Devolution benefits Scotland For a region that has been seeking autonomy as far back as the 13th century (Bbc.co.uk, 2014), devolution can be said to have been a good compromise. Devolution is a practice in which the central government transfers some of its powers, rights and responsibilities to local authorities to exercise these powers on its behalf (Devolution, n.d.). Does devolution have any benefit to Scotland?
The movement towards devolution for Scotland increased in the 1970s and 1980s. Reasons for this include the Scottish economic recession in the 1980s, the dispute in Scotland over the use of North Sea oil, the misrepresentation of Scotland in the Westminster parliament and an increase in the support for nationalist parties
Also, the local people are more informed about the economic policies that the government is undertaking. Furthermore, there is greater efficiency of economic policy formulation in the sense that the government would only focus on key areas of the economy (Ashcroft and Swales, 2005). The Scottish government also has a measure of control, although minimal, over the North Sea oil and gets some benefits from it (Barnes, 2013). The economic recession has also been reduced as a result of policies put in place by the Scottish government like employment schemes, general investment and so on.
Lastly, tourism in Scotland is thriving under devolution. In 2015, over 14.6 million visitors visited Scotland. This earns around £12 billion of economic activity and adds around £6 billion to Scotland’s GDP. Tourism in Scotland also accounts for 7.7% of employment in the country. Scottish government promotes tourism through the revised national events strategy which ensures Scotland continues to improve and invest in its vibrant tourism industry (Gov.scot,