As soon as Scottish and English MPs began negotiations for Union in 1706 there was a debate about the two options - an ‘incorporating’ or ‘federal’ Union. The following arguments were made for a federal Union.
National identity
Federal Union, with two separate Parliaments, meant that Scotland and England would keep hold of their national differences and the Presbyterian Kirk would be safe.
Protecting businesses
Federal Union would ensure the protection of Scottish manufacturers.
Easier to reverse
Federal Union made it possible to reverse the Union.
