In the UK, there remains an economy of "outer Britain" which has a higher representation of low-pay, low-skill jobs, and correspondingly, lower levels of economic growth than other parts of the country. The author discusses how the distinctive ideological complexions of Scottish and Welsh politics open the possibility of different approaches to adult learning within the devolved administrations. However, whether or not Scottish and Welsh provision for adult learning does actually take alternative forms remains to be seen. As in other policy areas to which Prime Minister Gordon Brown attaches greater significance, the author contends that it is probable that the current national administration will have much to learn from the development of adult learning in "outer Britain" over coming years.