Incisive commentary from the IfG’s expert team on issues facing government and key ministerial decisions.
From analysis of key political events such as budgets and party conferences to snap responses to unexpected developments such as government reshuffles, our writers set out their views and analyse what government gets right, what it gets wrong, and what it can do better.
Rishi Sunak’s analysis about pandemic trade-offs is over-simplistic
The prime minister's Covid inquiry appearance left questions unanswered.
Civil service relocation has worked well – but risks lie ahead
The government should learn the lessons of why relocation has been successful so far
The Office for Students needs support to assert its independence
If ministers are serious about higher education, they should take on board the recommendations of the recent Lords inquiry into the OfS.
The government has abdicated responsibility for public services
Jeremy Hunt’s tax cuts have been funded by further tightening public service budgets.
The 2023 autumn statement marks a step forward on devolution – but the job is far from complete
Four new devolution deals shows promise for the government’s devolution agenda.
Simon Case's absence has left a growing gap in government
The government needs to be clearer about how it is organised while the cabinet secretary is on medical leave.
Six things we learnt from the 2023 autumn statement
The chancellor presented his autumn statement alongside the latest forecasts from the independent Office for Budget Responsibility.
Rishi Sunak’s pivot to tax cuts reveals No10’s search for an economic argument
The prime minister’s speech sets out five new economic promises – and has shifted the discussion about tax cuts.
Autumn statement frenzy shows why we should only have one fiscal event a year
Jeremy Hunt should hold on to his reputation for economic competence.
Rishi Sunak’s reshuffle should be the last big one before the election
A period of stability in the government ranks is needed.