Devolution
We examine the effectiveness of devolution across the UK and the relationships between national and devolved government.
Key topics
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English devolution
What is the history of English devolution? How much of England has devolution? Which powers are devolved?

Senedd Cymru (Welsh parliament)
The Senedd Cymru (Welsh parliament) in Cardiff is the devolved legislature of Wales.
Devolution to England
We evaluate devolution to England’s cities and regions, and make the case for a more coherent approach to English subnational government.
Devolution to Scotland
We scrutinise devolution to Scotland and consider the implications of possible future constitutional change – including Scottish independence.
Devolution to Wales
We consider the case for reform to the powers, funding and status of the Welsh parliament and Welsh government.
Devolution to Northern Ireland
We assess the operation of devolution in Northern Ireland and examine the UK government’s approach to Northern Ireland in light of Brexit.
The art of the devolution deal
Too little attention has been paid to how devolution deals are negotiated and implemented and how Whitehall should support them.
Read the report
Government 2024: IfG's annual conference
The IfG will bring together influential speakers and experts to explore the key questions for government in 2024.
How can devolution contribute to regional growth in England?
Jim McMahon MP, Shadow Minister for English Devolution and Local Government, joins us to discuss what ‘good’ devolution looks like.
How can local leaders help England reach net zero?
Ed Cox & Shirley Rodrigues discussed what role England’s mayors and local leaders can play in decarbonising the economy and public services.
In conversation with Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party
Anas Sarwar was in conversation with Dr Hannah White, Director of the Institute for Government, to discuss Scotland's constitutional future.
How metro mayors can help level up England
The UK government must devolve fuller powers and greater flexibility over spending to metro mayors so that these local leaders can help level up England.
Read the report
Our explainers

Trailblazer devolution deals
What are trailblazer devolution deals and what powers will they devolve to combined authorities?

Barnett formula
The Barnett formula is used by the UK Treasury to calculate the annual block grants for the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish governments.

Local government
The local government system varies in many ways between the four nations of the UK. We explain the structure and political balance in each nation.

Intergovernmental relations
How do officials and ministers across the UK cooperate and resolve disputes?
Our devolution team

Akash Paun
Programme Director
Devolution to the East Midlands

Matthew Fright
Senior Researcher
Devolution to the East Midlands

Briony Allen
Research Assistant