Britain – the four home nations – each is unique, each with its own great contribution and we will never allow separatists or narrow nationalists in Scotland or in Wales to sever the common bonds that bring our country together as one.

The ‘in-and-out’ principle ought to be attractive to Conservatives since it would ensure them a semi-permanent majority on most social issues at Westminster - no small prize. Labour remains formally committed to devolution and may be expected to consider a plan along these lines in the future.

it is because the Scottish parliament is the precursor for one in Wales and regional devolution throughout Britain that the West Lothian question - essentially that different M.P.s will have differing roles at Westminster - is not a genuine problem in proceeding with change.

As far as St. George's day is concerned, it is a matter for public debate on whether this is going to be a holiday.

The settlement is based on the Barnett formula, and he knows that it is worked out carefully to fulfil the needs of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

The Barnett formula is for the whole of the United Kingdom. It is not for one part of the UK. It covers all areas of the United Kingdom, and the formula is based on the needs of each different part.

The allocation of funds in the United Kingdom is based on a needs assessment that started more than 30 years ago, has been agreed by all parties subsequently, and has been followed by every Government since. It is based on the idea that we should allocate resources in the UK on the basis of need.

There is also an English lobby for a separate English parliament. The case for the UK and the integration of it has got to be put and that’s what I intend to do over the next few months.