Incisive commentary from the IfG’s expert team on issues facing government and key ministerial decisions.
From analysis of key political events such as budgets and party conferences to snap responses to unexpected developments such as government reshuffles, our writers set out their views and analyse what government gets right, what it gets wrong, and what it can do better.
What North Shropshire does (not) mean for the prime minister and his agenda
A shock by-election defeat leaves the prime minister facing calls from across his party to switch course,
The PM should make clear that he backs Chris Whitty’s advice (or doesn’t)
The prime minister is responsible for government policy and communications in a crisis.
Downing Street Christmas party inquiry needs to restore trust
The inquiry into Downing Street parties had already placed the cabinet secretary in a difficult position.
The Covid Inquiry’s chair must have freedom to go where the evidence takes her
The Covid inquiry chair must take control of her work by agreeing the terms of reference and focusing on the most important government decisions
Government loses its bottle over cleaning up standards this year
The government risks storing up problems for next year if it does not come up with a plan for improving standards
Omicron wave means government should revive targeted economic support
Any economic support should learn the lessons of previous schemes to ensure better value for money.
Five questions the government should answer on its Omicron Covid variant plan
Tom Sasse sets out the questions Boris Johnson needs to address over his response to the Omicron variant
The government needs to set out its case for Covid passports
The government must do more to explain the risks and benefits of Covid passports if it is to address MPs’ concerns
Geidt should stay – but only if Johnson strengthens the independent adviser’s role
Lord Geidt should stay on as independent adviser on ministerial interests in return for his role being seriously strengthened
It is not right to appoint a politician to lead the Civil Service Commission
The government has made a mistake by proposing a politician to lead the body that exists to oversee civil service impartiality