Catherine Haddon
Programme Director
Cath's recent work
What is a manifesto?
Manifestos set out the policies a political party would deliver if they were to win an election.
All work
The UK now needs a formal acting prime minister role
Government can function for a while in the prime minister’s absence, but ministers and officials need to know who is in charge
Acting prime ministers
The UK does not have a formal constitutional role of a deputy or caretaker prime minister who would step in if the PM were unable to perform their job
Coronavirus Act 2020
The Coronavirus Act 2020 received Royal Assent on 25 March, having been fast-tracked through parliament in just four sitting days.
Government emergency powers and coronavirus
The term “emergency powers” usually refers to government powers to respond rapidly to a public emergency.
Permanent secretaries
This explainer looks at the role of permanent secretaries, the most senior rank of civil servant.
Coronavirus (Covid-19): government response
The threat of pandemic flu has been a concern for successive governments.
David Gauke
David Gauke reflects on his time at the Treasury, pushing through reforms to the justice system and rebelling against the government in parliament.
Norman Lamb
Norman Lamb reflects on not being offered a ministerial role after the 2010 general election, coalition politics and mental health care reforms.
Government ‘battle-planning’ for coronavirus still means difficult choices for ministers
No amount of 'battle-planning' can fully prepare ministers for taking difficult decisions.
Greg Clark
Greg Clark was interviewed on 27 February 2020 for the Institute for Government’s Ministers Reflect project.