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.
Mahmood and Burnham brace for the next police force merger row
Has unrest in Dover and Portsmouth made the case for merging smaller police forces?
Liberal Democrat conference 2026: Does Daisy Cooper’s growth plan add up?
The Lib Dem Treasury spokesperson drew a large crowd at this year’s IfG fringe event.
Burnham and Healey must avoid the budget mistakes of Starmer and Reeves
The chancellor should take difficult decisions at the budget rather than ducking tough choices.
Carney, Canada and the EU: What could it mean for the UK/EU reset?
Fresh EU thinking on Canada may not give the UK more post-Brexit options.
The Ethics and Integrity Commission is right to review the ombuds landscape
In April, the IfG gave evidence to the Ethics and Integrity Commission’s first review.
Legislating for the past: What is retrospective legislation and when is it ok?
What is meant by “retrospective” legislation, and can it ever be acceptable?
The public must be properly engaged before assisted dying legislation returns
Legislation on assisted dying deserves more than the workings of the private members’ bill system.
Local government reorganisation credibility is on the line
Local authorities need a clear delivery timetable following the LGR process review.
A collaborative taskforce can help a government deliver its priorities
Andy Burnham and Louise Haigh have an uphill battle to overcome taskforce scepticism.
New government, new legal risk guidance
New guidance is an insight into the government’s attitude to the law and legal risk.