Hilary Benn MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, commenting on reports that shire counties are calling for more cash and powers for English regions, said:

“Devolution isn’t just for Scotland.  There is an unstoppable tide now flowing right across England in favour of people having more power locally.

“The shire counties are furious that David Cameron and George Osborne have ignored them, whereas Labour’s pledge to pass back decision-making over transport priorities, getting the homes we need built, improving skills and getting people into work will cover the whole of England - our great counties, and their towns and villages, as well as our cities. If we want to get the economy moving in all parts of the country, then we need to give local communities more power to shape their own future.”