Devolution to Scotland
We scrutinise devolution to Scotland and consider the implications of possible future constitutional change – including Scottish independence.
Recent analysis
Labour should commit to both the letter and the spirit of the Sewel convention
The UK government should consider and consult its devolved counterparts in its legislative agenda.
Humza Yousaf’s precarious position puts the SNP – and Scotland – at a crossroads
This week could bring the swift toppling of the first minister and a summer election.
Key explainers
Scottish parliament
The Scottish parliament at Holyrood in Edinburgh is the devolved legislature of Scotland.
Scottish government 2023/24 budget
The Scottish government’s annual budget allocates devolved spending in Scotland for the next financial year and sets some tax rates.
SNP leadership: How was John Swinney selected as first minister of Scotland?
How did the SNP elect its leader?
Scottish independence
When and how could a second referendum on Scottish independence take place?
Read our explainer
Our latest reports
Scottish independence: EU membership and the Anglo–Scottish border
What EU membership would mean for Scotland and its relationship with the rest of the UK.
How would an independent Scotland borrow?
The steps an independent Scotland could take to reassure investors and limit increases in debt interest costs.
Currency options for an independent Scotland
Any currency choice for a newly independent Scotland would require its government to bring borrowing down to a sustainable level.
The fiscal position of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Breaking away from the UK would leave Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland facing sizeable fiscal deficits.
Our events on devolution to Scotland
In conversation with Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland
Kate Forbes MSP joins us at the IfG to reflect on the Scottish independence referendum and the 25th anniversary of Scottish devolution.
In conversation with Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party
Anas Sarwar was in conversation with Dr Hannah White, Director of the Institute for Government, to discuss Scotland's constitutional future.
What would the constitution of an independent Scotland look like?
The IfG was at the SNP Conference to discuss some of the fundamental questions about the operation of an independent Scotland's political system.
Interviews with former Scottish ministers
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Humza Yousaf
Humza Yousaf discusses policy challenges in justice, transport and health, his leadership style, and the breakdown of the Bute House Agreement.
Michael Matheson
Michael Matheson reflects on lessons from public health and the justice portfolio, working under three first ministers, and working with the Greens.
Nicola Sturgeon
Nicola Sturgeon talks about the Scottish independence referendum, her leadership style as first minister, and working with five different UK PMs.
Lorna Slater
Lorna Slater discusses becoming a minister shortly after she was elected, the Bute House Agreement, and the UK Internal Market Act 2020.