The English question

Known to some as the "West Lothian Question" (after the locality of MP Tam Dylall who was the first person to raise the issue in Parliament), the 'English question' is the titular reference to the imbalance in UK parliament. Because Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own parliaments (though the later two have little power), the Houses of Parliament MP's who come from these countries have the ability to vote on matters that affect England but not their own country. In other words, people from other countries are deciding how England is governed.

It can cause problems and protest. For example, university tuition fees in England have been set by a vote from the House, whereas Scottish citizens are not eligible to pay the same fees. Some fear that if the problem continues and becomes exacerbated, tensions could rise more.

What is the solution to the problem?

The Popular Alliance believe in having "England only" voting days in parliament where matters that affect only England are voted on only by English MP's. This idea seems nice enough, though it could cause confusion in a government ruling by a clear majority. If losing the vote of non-English MP's challenges the majority of the ruling party, it could create problems.

The English Democrats favour an English Parliament with the same power as the Scottish Parliament and a referendum on further devolution or even dissolution of the Union. The only downside here is that the English Parliament would, logically, dominate other parliaments as well as adding an extra layer of expense.

The Free England Party, however, argue for a dissolution of the UK on the grounds that it "has served its purpose" and propose a "Council of the Isles" based on the Nordic model. This is a drastic and radical step, but one that can be argued well.