Some Lords have published a
Bill to do a hard reset and reboot of the UK, with a series of referendums in each part confirming the Union, one on the House of Lords, and, for England, a vote on whether for a single English parliament or a set of regional ones. Westminster would be left with just a core set of functions. Essentially, it would create a federation.
It's got no chance of becoming law, of course, but it's an interesting idea, in particular the statement of the aim of the Union set out in the first clause, and a list of the primary purposes that all would have to have 'due regard to' in the second section:
Quote:
The purpose of the United Kingdom is to provide a strong and effective union between the peoples of the constituent nations and parts.
...
The following are the principal purposes of the United Kingdom:
1. The rule of law and equality before the law.
2. The protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
3. Defence of the realm and the conduct of foreign relations.
4. The promotion of tolerance and respect.
5. Equality of opportunity.
6. Provision of a safe and secure society.
7. Provision of a strong economy.
8. Protection of social and economic rights, including provision of access to education and health and other social services (including the National Health Service).
9. Benefiting from shared history and culture.