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These pages set out the system of devolution in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and the arrangements for relations between the UK Government and the devolved administrations.
The devolution Acts passed by the UK Parliament in 1998 saw executive and legislative authority over certain matters devolved to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
The three devolution settlements differ significantly in their approach and extent, but each involves an elected Assembly or Parliament, and Ministers heading an executive structure:
Where power is not devolved, it remains with the UK authorities. Parliament at Westminster remains legally competent to legislate on any subject, though where primary legislative responsibility for a matter has been devolved, it normally does so only by agreement of the devolved legislature.
UK Ministers retain key responsibilities in the three parts of the United Kingdom with devolution and their departments continue to operate there. In particular there is a Secretary of State for each, who is a member of the UK Cabinet, supported by a territorial office (the Northern Ireland Office, Scotland Office and Wales Office).
Principles for relations between the administrations are set out in the Memorandum of Understanding between the UK Government and the devolved administrations, emphasising good communication and cooperation. Concordats between administrations and Devolution Guidance Notes set out more detail about the way relations should operate, including the preparation of legislation. Cabinet Office guidance for Whitehall departments on working with the Devolved Administrations is also available.
A Joint Ministerial Committee, meeting in a range of formats, brings together ministers from the different administrations. The Statement of Funding Policy published by HM Treasury sets out financial arrangements.