Devolution: England

Debate between Lord Elis-Thomas and Baroness Williams of Trafford

Wednesday 25th March 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

My noble friend, as always, hits the nail on the head. I could not have put it more articulately.

[Lord Elis-Thomas (PC)]

My Lords, during my time spent in both Houses of Parliament campaigning for devolution in Wales, I always thought that devolution for England—especially the north of England, which I dearly love, being my nearest region—was part of the project. Therefore, has not the time come for all us devolutionists within this kingdom to recognise that without the liberation of England, there is no future for the United Kingdom?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

My Lords, as my noble friend Lord Tebbit said, this is about decentralisation rather than devolution to England. I would just reiterate my previous point.