Destination: BRITAIN | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Things To Know Britain Explained A Diverse Unity Village Greens and Seaside From Oxford to the Lakes Wild Wales North to the Highlands Seeing the Country The Taste of Britain Protected by Sea Cornish pasties - with tasty, savory fillings © AA Photo Library |
Britain Explained The name “Britain” (or “Great Britain”) refers to the countries of England, Scotland and Wales located on the main island of Britain. To include Northern Ireland, the correct name is the “United Kingdom.” The United Kingdom is the official unified entity, governed by the central parliament in London and (nominally) by Queen Elizabeth II. However, political boundaries are becoming increasingly blurred by the European Union. Member countries are subject to E.U. rules and regulations, and regions are now being encouraged in their efforts at self-determination, with the result that Scotland and Wales - historically uneasy with what they saw as an English parliament (and Queen) in London - now have their own national assemblies and a degree of autonomy. But the legacy of London remains, and when the British talk about “this country” they usually mean Britain. |
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