Which matters are considered reserved matters in the Scottish Parliament?

Reserved matters refer specifically to issues that are not under the jurisdiction of the Scottish Parliament but are instead controlled by the UK Parliament. Defense and foreign affairs are significant reserved matters because they pertain to national security and the country's interactions with other nations. These areas require a uniform approach across the entire UK, which is why they remain reserved at the national level.

In contrast, health and education, local governance, and environmental issues fall under the responsibilities of the Scottish Parliament, allowing Scotland to legislate and make decisions based on its own needs and priorities. Thus, the correct identification of defense and foreign affairs as reserved matters highlights the distinct separation of powers and responsibilities between the UK Parliament and the Scottish Parliament.