The agreements set out the principles that the three administrations believe should underlie working relations between them. They are intended to promote communication and cooperation between the administrations and to help ensure harmonious relationships. These documents provide a solid foundation for good working relations between the UK Government and the devolved Scottish administration. They emphasise the need for communication and cooperation for the benefit of all three parties. They underpin the partnership between the two Parliaments to ensure Scotland derives the maximum benefit from devolution.
Devolution is about sharing power.
That means working in partnership to achieve the greatest benefits for Scotland as a whole. Devolution ensures other contributions are made directly through the Scottish Executive in key areas such as education and health. By working in partnership we can ensure Scotland continues to play a leading role in the United Kingdom. These documents cover areas where it makes sense to have a common approach across the administrations. The Memorandum of Understanding deals with communication and consultation between the administrations, exchange of information and confidentiality and the monitoring and management of the devolution settlements.