Akash Paun
Programme Director
Akash's recent work
All work
Can mayors be the answer to low public trust in government?
New research by the IfG, More in Common and the University of York reveals what people really think about government.
Labour Conference 2026: Will Andy Burnham pass his first test of leadership?
The IfG has identified five key areas where the prime minister can use conference to prove he is serious about delivering change.
How does the public understand government?
Assessing the ‘perception gap’ between experience and trust among voters in England.
Learning from the DevoLab #5: How mayors and local leaders can create a shared vision for growth
Three case studies of how mayors and local leaders have created a shared vision for regional growth.
Mayor of Greater Manchester
On 30 July 2026, Bev Craig was elected as mayor of Greater Manchester.
The Burnham government needs a new strategy for the Union
To deliver growth in every postcode, Burnham must build a genuine partnership with the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Learning from the DevoLab #4: How mayors can increase the supply of affordable homes
Three case studies of how devolved powers have been used to increase the supply of affordable homes.
From mayor to prime minister
Does Andy Burnham’s experience as a regional mayor prepare him for No.10?
Brexit at 10: Devolution
The UK’s vote to leave the EU immediately exposed divergent views across the UK.
Sewel convention
How the Sewel convention works in practice and what happens when devolved consent is withheld.