The Scottish referendum has changed the game in Whitehall. Moves towards devolution for England create an opportunity for the Government. Now is the time for change.

The prime minister's public promises of 'wider civic engagement about how to improve governance' and further devolution to England's 'great cities,' are a fine place to start the discussion but counties would argue we need to go further.

We are offering the next Government a deal, give us the powers and fiscal freedoms to make our plans a reality and we will improve public satisfaction in our services while generating long-term savings for the Exchequer.