Such political promiscuity might be held up as evidence that devolution works: different electorates in different parts of the country voting for different parties. But in reality, the results of Thursday’s elections are likely to herald a crescendo in the UK’s mounting constitutional crisis. Last November the unit reportedly asked for vials of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine to be labelled with the union flag. Far from strengthening the UK, the Conservatives’ political dominance will likely hasten its break-up. Yet, with no solid majority for Scottish independence – or Irish reunification – Johnson’s “precious” union could yet limp on for years.

Source: The Irish Times May 10, 2021 00:33 UTC