Uneven benefits? Territorial divides in perceptions of devolution in Scotland and Wales

Considerable attention has been given to resource distribution across regions in decentralised countries. However, less is known about how devolved institutions address territorial inequalities within their jurisdictions. Using original survey data from two UK devolved contexts, this article shows that while many respondents view devolution as benefitting Scotland, Wales and their capital cities (Edinburgh and Cardiff), they do not perceive similar gains for local communities, particularly if located in rural and peripheral areas. This gap has political and constitutional implications, as perceptions of local benefits are strongly correlated with support for regional incumbents, further devolution and even secession.