The Scottish Parliament 1999-2009

In May 1999 the Scottish Parliament opened with high expectations. The decade since has seen a transformation in Scottish politics. As the Parliament's 10th anniversary approaches, now is the perfect time to reflect on its role in the Scottish and wider UK political process. What have been the challenges and its achievements? Have expectations been met? The Scottish Parliament's four Founding Principles - access and participation, equal opportunities, accountability and power sharing - aimed to establish a body answerable to the people of Scotland. This project, run by the Hansard Society, will bring together a group of varied and distinguished commentators to discuss some of the key issues in the development of the Scottish Parliament over the past decade. They will explore whether initial expectations have been met and analyse how the Parliament has evolved at the core of a new Scottish political process.