Two radical agendas have sought to transform the relationship between the people and the state in recent times. The first is the devolution of power from central government. The second is the reorganisation of local government to make it more capable, more efficient, and more strategic.

They have both progressed in the cities, yet largely stalled in the counties. This stall has happened with unfortunate timing. Central government’s current preoccupation with Brexit means other vital changes are drifting. But nor does it have time to address the two things that could reduce the pressure on Whitehall – devolution and reorganisation.