Welsh Labour are repeating their party’s Scottish mistake by stoking nationalism for short-term gain. The Labour Leave campaign should not parrot them.
The academies plan could mark the start of a more effective, cheaper, de-centralised, responsive and accountable way of running the nation’s services.
Also: SNP minister accused of ignoring human rights abuses to solicit Qatari cash; UUP condemn McGuinness’ involvement in terror investigation panel; and more.
We should start by recognising that current public services are not quite fit for purpose, and that cuts afford us an opportunity.
Also: Villiers accused of ducking questions on Brexit’s impact on NI; Welsh Tories want ‘scores on doors’ for hospitals; SNP take cover from poor financial figures; and more.
Either we trust local government to manage its own finances, or we don’t.
Also: Davies savages Plaid for “grubby” pact attempt; Scottish Labour back SNP in devolution confrontation; Momentum refuse Ulster branch; and more.
Gove’s proposals are a welcome first step, but a truly radical programme must have a much broader scope than jails alone.
The headlines about being Opposition risk inflating expectations. Davidson wants clear evidence of progress and a shift in the terms of debate.
Also: SDLP plan for Stormont opposition; Labour at odds with Jones over EU poll; three more (ex-)SNP MPs in the firing line; and more.
It is not a “constitutional crisis” when devolved politicians disapprove of reserved policy. Westminster should fight its ground against Cardiff Bay.
Despite a good settlement from the Treasury, the West Midlands Combined Authority will struggle to inspire its residents.
The second piece in our mini-series on whether the Chancellor is achieving the rebalancing of the economy he wants.
Also: Cameron and Soubry strike out at SNP; McCluskey turns fire on Scottish Labour; Corbyn accused of fixing Welsh by-election selection; and more.
Rediscovering the strong, municipal politics of the Nineteenth Century is the key to making Britain thrive in the Twenty First.