Boris Johnson has declared that if he were to become Prime Minister he would also be the Minister for the Union. This would be both symbolically and practically important.

The symbolism is that it would show how crucial the Union is to a conservative understanding of our nation. The four parts which make one stronger whole.

Devolution is a crucial evolution of how power is exercised but it does not undermine or replace the unity of a single country that not only has so much shared history but current common interests.

This is the practical side which needs the Prime Minister’s focus to ensure that the authority that will return from the European Union is used effectively for the benefit of the United Kingdom.

Economically this will be especially relevant for trade, agriculture and fisheries. It will show that Brexit is a land of hope and opportunity for the Union, which will be strengthened by it.