‘We do need a coherent and more unified approach across the whole of the UK.' Let the words of Lord Kerslake echo around in your head for a moment. Surely, devolution is all about difference, local decision-making and reclaiming power from the centre?

The mantra from government has been non-prescriptive. You can have devo, but you don't have to have it. Don't ask us what we'll give you, tell us what you want. Opt in to a combined authority, or opt out. Even opt over the border into a different one.