What is NOT a feature of a unitary system?

Analyze the question: We are asked to find the option that is NOT a feature of a unitary system of government. In other words, we look for the statement that describes a federal system instead.

Concept: In a unitary system, all power is concentrated in one central government. Any regional or local governments exist only because the central government created them, and it can change or abolish them.

Typical features of a unitary system:

• There is a single source of authority, the central government.
• Power is not constitutionally shared between levels of government. Local units only receive delegated powers.
• The constitution is often flexible, so it is easy to amend, and it is usually unwritten or simple.
• The population is often homogeneous (small, culturally similar societies), though this is not always so.
• Secession is not an issue, because there are no constitutionally autonomous units that could break away. (Option C is a typo: "does not arise.")

Checking each option:

• A. A flexible constitution is a feature of unitary systems. ✔
• B. A homogeneous population is a common feature of unitary systems. ✔
• C. The question of secession does not arise, which is true of unitary systems. ✔
• D. A constitutional division of powers between central and regional governments is the defining feature of federalism, not of a unitary system. ✘
• E. There is only one source of authority, which is the central government. ✔

Answer: The statement that is NOT a feature of a unitary system is D.

Exam tip: Remember "Unitary = One." One source of power, one government in control, and no constitutional power sharing. If an option mentions division or sharing of powers by the constitution, think federal. Also watch the word "NOT" in the question so you don't pick a true feature by mistake.