To Mr Prescott's mind, the obvious answer is to press on with what he sees as the next stage of devolution setting up elected assemblies in the eight English regions outside London.

ECONOMIST: Regional aid

Indeed, the only BBA likely to make it through the legislative process and be sent to the states almost certainly will be so watered down that it would become a positive fiscal endangerment itself, setting the stage for future Congresses to balance the budget up with higher taxes.

FORBES: It's Time For The Republicans To Play Budgetary Small Ball

Hertfordshire are attempting to tackle the issues at an early stage in workers' careers by setting up the academy.

BBC: Academy for social workers opens