Debates for further reform

• Arguments for more devolution in England

  • Strong sense of regional identity in parts of England such as 2015 Cornwall as they were the first county to be given devolved powers (investment and bus services)
  • England is the most populated region yet has no own government
  • Devolution is asymmetric so spending per capita is less in England than other parts of the UK
• Arguments against Devolution in England

  • Not all parts have strong regional identities e.g. North East who have rejected the opportunity to have its own assembly in 2004 (78% to 22%)
  • Establishment of an English parliament could challenge the authority of the Westminster parliament
  • Very little positive demand for reform