Devolution
We examine the effectiveness of devolution across the UK and the relationships between national and devolved government.
Key topics
See allMetro mayors
Metro mayors are directly elected regional leaders who chair combined authorities. But what do they do?
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.
How the government can extend devolution to the whole of England
Labour has come to power committed to widening devolution. Our report sets out how the government should take these decisions and what the options are in each part of England.
Find out moreDevolution 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.
In conversation with Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland
Kate Forbes MSP joins us at the IfG to reflect on the Scottish independence referendum and the 25th anniversary of Scottish devolution.
IfG at the Conservative Party Conference 2024
A series of fringe events on industrial strategy, devolution, public services, net zero and more.
IfG at the Labour Party Conference 2024
A series of fringe events on industrial strategy, devolution, public services, net zero and more.
Local and mayoral elections 2024: Why they matter and what to look out for
Sir John Curtice and Sarah Calkin joined IfG experts to discuss what is at stake and what to expect in the elections on 2 May.
How the next government should complete the job of English devolution
The English devolution agenda needs a reset. The next government must extend devolution to 85% of England to deliver meaningful and balanced economic growth.
Read the reportOur 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
Five things we learned from the Conservative Party Conference 2024
Matthew Fright
Senior Researcher
How the government can extend devolution to the whole of England
Briony Allen
Research Assistant
Scottish independence
Millie Mitchell
Researcher