Devolution is one way of escaping the worst effects of Whitehall. Scotland and Wales have almost certainly benefitted. It is a pity that devolution to the regions in England was halted when the people of the North East voted against it. The only limitation of devolution is that in theory Westminster can always take back the powers it has devolved.

Devolution based on government standard regions is not necessarily the best option. For example the Cornish have their own language and wish to assert their own identity, and yet the South West regional assembly is based in Bristol, about 120 miles from the nearest point in Cornwall.

If Whitehall had to accept its subservience to a parliament, it might be more amenable to devolving certain decisions to a more local level. Decisions made by one area, if successful could provide models for others.