In May 1787, the first constitutional convention began in Philadelphia, setting out ambitious powers for a new kind of modern state in America.

Two-hundred-and-twenty-eight years to the day, Core City leaders met in London on 14 May to launch their own Devolution Declaration, a document that sets out how we can create a modern state for a stronger Britain. On the same day George Osborne went to Manchester to restate his commitment to city devolution, Core City leaders joined decision-makers, academics and thought leaders to hear our offer to the country and the new Government, an offer to help re-balance, reform and renew Britain.