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.
Three things the government needs to do to make the child poverty strategy work
The child poverty strategy is a concrete shift towards prevention but ministers must take action to implement it effectively.
Trust is a two-way street: Lessons from former ministers on managing relationships in government and parliament
Sajid Javid, Theresa Villiers and Simon Hart explore the relationship between cabinet ministers and the prime minister.
Mayoral elections in priority areas should be held in May 2027 at the very latest
The government has not made a convincing case for postponement.
A strong OBR is in everyone’s interests
The chancellor should appoint a strong chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility to replace Richard Hughes.
The government’s decision to delay mayoral elections cannot be justified on democratic or fairness grounds
The government has postponed the May 2026 mayoral elections in Greater Essex, Sussex and Brighton, Hampshire and the Solent, and Norfolk and Suffolk.
Central government’s takeover of SEND deficits raises the stakes for SEND reform
At the budget the chancellor announced a significant change to SEND funding arrangements.
The Covid Inquiry shows the importance of ministerial leadership during crises
Clarity of priorities, clear messaging and visible leadership are paramount in any crisis.
The government still has questions to answer on digital IDs
What does the government need to do to move its digital ID plans forward?
Behind every great minister there is a great private office
The Institute for Government has launched a workshop series for private office starters.
The Covid Inquiry has missed vital lessons on how to make better decisions
We have not learnt much that is new from the inquiry’s Module Two report.