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.
How government should respond to the killing of Henry Nowak
Henry Nowak's murder must lead to considered and targeted government action.
A ‘radical overhaul’ is the wrong move for the youth justice system
The government’s white paper risks undermining one of the few public services currently working well
Government should approach reducing risk of judicial review with care
The government is seeking a quick solution for its infrastructure frustrations.
Reform UK’s local election gains pose new challenges for Labour mayors
The gains of opposition parties in the May 2026 local elections could make it harder for Labour’s regional mayors to deliver.
Alan Milburn’s NEET diagnosis must lead to local level solutions
Local leaders are best placed to support a “lost generation” of young people not in education, employment or training.
Danny Kruger will only fix the centre of government if he works out why it’s broken
Reform UK are yet to understand the complex realities of power inside government.
The Climate Change Committee analysis is clear: government must start taking adaptation seriously
Government should focus on the climate change hitting the UK now.
Government is right to start tackling the knotty issue of civil service pay
Performance-related pay progression for senior officials is a good, if limited, move.
Shabana Mahmood’s retrospective action on immigration could undermine trust in government
The home secretary’s immigration reforms could put her on collision course with the courts
Labour leadership uncertainty highlights growing ignorance about the UK’s constitution
Talk of acting prime ministers and shutting down government risks creating constitutional confusion.