The population of England and Wales has increased by 3.7 million since 2002 which represents a huge logistical challenge not just in terms of planning local services but also in terms of addressing the widening democratic deficit in England which host the lions share of the increase.
We ought to forget talk of an English parliament, which reinforces our worst top down instincts and look again at devolution for England’s regions.
The overwhelming vote for additional powers to be given to the Welsh Assembly last year, the prospect of an independent Scotland and the substantial devolved powers afforded to London underscore the continued isolation of the regions.
