ABSTRACT
The context for COVID-19 in the United Kingdom (UK) has been strongly shaped by the devolved structures of UK Government and the unusual character of intergovernmental relations to which it gives effect. As of the end of August 2020, the UK had experienced one of the very highest figures for deaths from COVID-19 per 1 m population, one of the highest absolute numbers of COVID-19 recorded deaths, and a level of excess deaths that was the highest in Europe. The relationship between ‘federalism’ and COVID-19 in the UK, and the role of the three devolved Nations, has been heavily influenced by the underlying demographic and geographical structure of the UK, and the specific histories associated with devolution to all three. The pandemic has exacerbated intergovernmental tensions within the UK. It has not stimulated greater enduring collaboration but rather fuelled resentment and exasperation on the part of the devolved Nations.
