Separatism in the United Kingdom

Separatism in the United Kingdom may refer to the secession of any of the countries of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales) from the union. Less significant movements for separatism exist such as Cornwall within England.

The main separatist movements of the countries of the United Kingdom may be described collectively to possibly lead to the breakup of the United Kingdom, in relation to the impact a successful movement may have on the other movements.

Since May 2026, the governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales are led by separatist parties, with the main separatist party being the largest party in each of the three devolved legislatures.

Major movements

England

On the political level, some English nationalists have advocated self-government for England. This could take the form either of a devolved English Parliament within the United Kingdom or the re-establishment of an independent sovereign state of England outside the UK.

The English Democrats are an English nationalist political party that call for the creation of a devolved English Parliament within a federal UK.

Scotland

Scottish independence is supported most prominently by the Scottish National Party, but other parties also support independence. Other pro-independence parties which have held representation in the Scottish Parliament include the Scottish Green Party, the Scottish Socialist Party and Solidarity. At the 2016 Scottish Parliament election, 69 of the 129 seats available were won by pro-independence parties (63 SNP and 6 Greens). The independence movement consists of many factions with varying political views. The SNP wants Scotland to keep the monarchy (see personal union) and become an independent Commonwealth realm, similar to Canada or Australia.