Research and analysis
We examine the questions that matter most for effective government.
Explore our research and analysis
Cabinet
The cabinet is the senior decision-making body in government.
Does Andy Burnham have a mandate?
Labour’s opponents are demanding that the next prime minister call an early general election.
No.10 North: Burnham needs to be clear-eyed about the purpose of his Manchester office
An overwhelmed 10 Downing Street could be improved by creating No.10 North.
Brexit at 10: A decade of drama, deals and disruption
The IfG's Jill Rutter, UKICE's Anand Menon and the BBC's Adam Fleming reflect on 10 years of key Brexit moments.
Former prime ministers: what support do they get from the state?
Prime ministers are entitled to public financial support in the form of the Public Duty Costs Allowance (PDCA).
Mayor of Greater Manchester
On 18 June 2026, Andy Burnham was elected as MP for Makerfield, leaving the post of mayor of Greater Manchester vacant.
Andy Burnham must sort out the centre of government on day one
A weak No.10 and ineffective Cabinet Office require urgent attention
From mayor to prime minister
Does Andy Burnham’s experience as a regional mayor prepare him for No.10?
How do Labour Party leadership contests work?
A Labour leadership election can only be triggered if the leader resigns, or if 20% of MPs nominate a challenger.
Effective transitions of prime minister: lessons for Andy Burnham
Andy Burnham needs to be ruthless with his time and priorities in his preparations for power