Saint's Day for 9 EU regions

Yes, it's the day when we celebrate Saint George, the chosen Saint for the EU regions Eastern, East Midlands, North East, North West, South East, Yorkshire and Humber, South West, West Midlands, and London. Huzzah!

Many years ago, St George used be the patron saint of a place called 'England'.

England was one of four countries - with 'Scotland', 'Northern Ireland' and 'Wales' - making up what was hilariously named 'The United Kingdom'.

The nine regions are still governed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom; there hasn't been a Government of England since 1707. All of the other countries of the United Kingdom have devolved governments.

MPs from Scotland and Wales sit in England, and vote on legislation affecting only England. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is from Scotland.

English MPs, however, have no right to legislate on devolved matters in Scotland or Wales.

England contains 84% of the population of the UK, but is the only country of the United Kingdom not to have free cancer treatment. Or free prescriptions. Or free residential care for the elderly. Or free top-up university fees.

It also used to be that the 'English' flag was flown on this day. However, it is now considered xenophobic - even racist - to do so, so this practice is strongly discouraged.

So, there's much to celebrate today.

Happy St George's Day!

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