Research and analysis
We examine the questions that matter most for effective government.
Explore our research and analysis
By-elections
How are by-elections triggered?
Downing Street chief of staff
The Downing Street chief of staff is the UK prime minister’s most senior political adviser.
Mid-term prime ministers – Episode 2: The transition
Episode two of our series takes a closer look at what happened in the first weeks and months of the mid-term premierships from Major to Sunak.
Government reshuffles
A reshuffle is when government ministers are moved between posts.
Whips: What is their role?
Whips are MPs and peers affiliated to a political party appointed to ensure their party colleagues vote according to the leader’s agenda.
Mayors will be key to Burnham’s housing ambitions
What the IfG DevoLab tells us about regional mayors and housing.
Five tips for Labour’s new special advisers
How can spads in the Burnham government get things done?
Government ministers
This explainer sets out what are the different types of ministers, how they are appointed and what they do.
Special advisers
Special advisers (spads) are political appointees hired to support ministers.
Andy Burnham is right to devolve employment support
Strategic authorities are best placed to tailor local support.