Working to make government more effective

Downing Street

Ministers

We examine the role that ministers play in the UK government and how they can be most effective.

Our research, analysis, events and commentary look at the job of being a minister, what tools and strategies they use in their roles and how they work with the civil service. We analyse the ethical standards expected of ministers and how they are held to account.  

We regularly speak to former ministers about their time in office, and publish their thoughts in our archive of Ministers Reflect interviews. Through the IfG Academy, we offer practical advice and support – based on IfG research – for current and prospective ministers, special advisers and officials working in private offices, about how they can get things done during their time in office. 

What can we learn from the IfG's Ministers Database?

Our webinar explored the IfG's new public database of government ministers since 1979.

Watch or listen back
Starmer cabinet

Getting things done in government

Twelve key lessons from former ministers on how to be effective in government.

Read the report
The door at No. 10 Downing Street.

Strengthening private office

Strengthening civil service support for ministers is essential to reset the strained relationship between Whitehall and government – and this should begin with reform of ministers' private offices.

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A front cover for a report on the private office. The main image is of a Whitehall street sign.