Power to the people? The route to English Devolution

There is a growing consensus that English governance is over-centralised, and that more-or-less radical devolution is required. The possibility of a new government in 2024 creates a unique opening and new impetus for a radical devolutionary settlement in England.

But how can we best take advantage of this seemingly propitious moment? What can prevent a rapid reversion to the deeply embedded culture of centralism in England, where the statements and actions of ministers are prone to frequently and flatly contradicting devolutionary rhetoric?

Radical devolution requires a radical approach and a comprehensive, coherent and irreversible plan for reform. It must be developed by the centre in partnership with local leaders and communities, and not solely as another top-down project.

Power to the People?, a new report from Compass and Unlock Democracy, assesses five proposals that could provide inspiration and guidance for an incoming government, if it is determined to act. The report concludes with its own set of recommendations inspired by these proposals.

Authors: Jonathan S Davies and Arianna Giovannini