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.
A missed chance to reassure that Whitehall has Brexit covered
The Government's latest Single Departmental Plans offer a fairer reflection of the impact of Brexit on departments’ work – but not by much.
Too many priorities mean no priorities
Ministers need to be clear about their priorities so that the next set of Single Departmental Plans are not just shopping lists of nice-to-haves.
Taking part in future EU budget talks is good for the UK
This is an opportunity to move financial talks beyond the exit bill, and one which the Government should seize.
Is 'government by direction' creeping up on us?
'Technical directions' should not become the norm when it comes to making spending decisions.
Government can use GDPR to be more proactive about data
New data protection regulations offer government an opportunity to think again about how it can use data effectively.
Andrew Tyrie can't be an independent regulator and take the Tory whip
Andrew Tyrie's appointment as a Conservative peer is incompatible with his position as chair of the Competition and Markets Authority.
We must allow the Grenfell Inquiry to take its time
Inquiries typically take several years; the average is around three. Grenfell will take time.
The Scottish Parliament has rejected the Brexit bill – are we heading for a second independence referendum?
The Prime Minister now faces an unpalatable choice: concede defeat or help the SNP make the case for indyref2.
Of course the Lords needs reforming
Discovering now that the House of Lords requires ‘root and branch’ reform is disingenuous.
Five questions new councillors must ask
Newly-elected councillors inherit a challenging mix of rising demands and smaller budgets.