Good heavens, what have the Scots started? You can't open a paper or read The MJ these days without yet another report promoting devolution. After years being kept in the kitchen the Cinderella that is ‘English Regions' is finally being invited to the national debate.

It is clear that for the front-runners most notably the core cities, and particularly the city regions of Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, there is much on offer. We may have to wait until the Chancellor's Autumn Statement in December for the full details but it is clear there will be considerable scope for local political leaders to provide transport, planning education and skills policies for their communities.