unitary state

unitary state
   A state in which there is no constitutional division of sovereignty, so that all powers derive from central authority. Sub-national governments, regional or local, may exist, but they do so only at the behest of the centre. National government can in theory abolish lower levels. Unitary systems normally exist in relatively homogeneous countries which lack significant ethnic, geographical, linguistic or religious distinctions. Most countries are unitary, examples being France, Israel and the United Kingdom (UK).
   Countries such as France and the UK are sometimes classified as ‘devolving unitary’ states. There is some elected regional machinery with a degree of – but not necessarily uniform – autonomy. In the UK, power has been devolved to Scotland, Wales and – when the system is up and running – Northern Ireland; a system of local government exists too. But devolved and local power can be revoked. They operate at the behest of Westminster, to which they are entirely subordinate.
   See also: devolution

Glossary of UK Government and Politics . 2013.

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