Explainers
Our explainers cover key subjects relating to our work, setting out key facts and figures and answering the most important questions about government.
Explore our explainers
2023 boundary changes
What is happening to constituency boundaries, and why? How are they changing? How are MPs affected?
Local elections 2024: District, borough and unitary councils
On 2 May voters across England will elect more than 5,000 councillors
MPs standing down at the next general election
How many MPs are standing down at the next election, and why?
Ministerial directions
Ministerial directions are formal instructions telling departments to proceed with a spending proposal, despite objection from permanent secretaries.
Local elections 2024: Police and crime commissioners
On 2 May 2024, elections are taking place for 39 police and crime commissioners (PCCs).
Local elections 2024: Mayor of York and North Yorkshire
Who are the candidates for York and North Yorkshire mayor? What powers will the new mayor hold?
Local elections 2024: Mayor of South Yorkshire
On 2 May 2024, voters in South Yorkshire elect their metro mayor.
Local elections 2024: Mayor of the North East
How will the first Mayor of the North East be elected? Who are the candidates?
Local elections 2024: Mayor of the West Midlands
On 2 May 2024, voters in Birmingham and six neighbouring local areas will vote to elect the mayor of the West Midlands.
Local elections 2024: Mayor of West Yorkshire
On 2 May 2024, voters in West Yorkshire vote to elect their metro mayor.