MPs should be prepared to cross devolution's boundaries to fix people's problems – Christine Jardine

Christine Jardine, the Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, recently emphasized the importance of elected representatives going beyond the boundaries of devolution to address the concerns and needs of their constituents effectively. Devolution refers to the process of transferring powers from the central government to regional or local authorities. In the context of the United Kingdom, this process has led to the establishment of the Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly, among other regional bodies.

Jardine's statement highlights the responsibility that elected representatives bear towards their constituents, regardless of the level of government they serve at. This means that MPs at Westminster and those at the Scottish Parliament or Welsh Assembly must work collaboratively and be willing to engage with each other to tackle issues that may transcend the boundaries of devolved powers.

For instance, some policy areas, such as immigration, defense, and foreign affairs, remain under the jurisdiction of the UK Parliament in Westminster. However, these issues can significantly impact the lives of individuals and communities within Scotland and Wales. In such cases, it is essential for Scottish and Welsh elected representatives to engage with their Westminster counterparts and advocate on behalf of their constituents.

Moreover, some issues may require a coordinated response from both devolved and non-devolved authorities. For example, addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality often necessitates collaboration between various government departments and agencies, as well as local organizations and community groups. In such cases, it is crucial for elected representatives to work together and pool resources and expertise to find effective solutions.

Furthermore, the complexity of modern policy issues often means that they cannot be neatly compartmentalized within the boundaries of devolved powers. For instance, climate change is an issue that requires action at the local, national, and international levels. In this context, it is essential for elected representatives to collaborate and coordinate their efforts to address this global challenge effectively.

In conclusion, Christine Jardine's call for elected representatives to go beyond the boundaries of devolution reflects the need for collaboration and coordination between different levels of government in addressing the complex and interconnected issues that affect the lives of individuals and communities in Scotland and Wales. By working together and pooling resources and expertise, elected representatives can more effectively tackle the challenges facing their constituents and ensure that they receive the support they need, regardless of the level of government responsible for the policy area in question.