Fracking may have been rejected in Lancashire, but the battle reveals that power is being stripped from the people of Britain.
The German model shows that another union is possible.
The election result underscores the need for a profound rethink by the left in England: this should focus on regionalism and radical democracy.
Originally delivered as a public lecture at the University of Winchester on Thursday 9th October, 2014, John Denham reflects on the future of England and "Englishness."
Centralisation has certainly failed, but the promise of devolution to Greater Manchester is being massively hyped.
All three main UK parties are keen to pursue English devolution. But their proposals are elite-driven and do not take democracy seriously enough.
We need a process for determining devolution that is more considered, democratic and which tackles devolution in the context of the wider failings of the UK state.
A meeting with Podemos in Manchester provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of democracy and the need to challenge the undemocratic politics of 'DevoManc'.
The referendum in Scotland is creating impetus for a redistribution of power within England. But who will determine the shape of this - Westminster, local elites or local citizens?
As Britain faces a general election, it's clearer than ever that Scotland is a completely different country.
The creation of a new elected mayor for Greater Manchester takes further forward a decade of constructive innovation - but there are crucial issues of inclusion and public engagement which must be got right.
A new campaign wants to put the 'DevoManc' proposal to a referendum of the people of Greater Manchester. It is one sign of a growing desire to put the people, rather than politicians, in control.
