Explainers
Our explainers cover key subjects relating to our work, setting out key facts and figures and answering the most important questions about government.
Explore our explainers
Public bodies
Public bodies deliver a public or government service, though not as a ministerial department.
Sue Gray report – what questions will she answer?
This explainer was published when the Sue Gray investigation into government parties held during lockdown was announced.
Sue Gray investigation
Boris Johnson announced an investigation into allegations that Christmas parties in November and December 2020 broke the government’s own Covid rules.
Eric Pickles
Lord Pickles considers his five years as secretary of state for communities and local government.
Vaccine mandates
Vaccine mandates are a way to compel people to get vaccinations.
Government transparency and ethics: proposed reforms
How the proposed reforms for improving government transparency and ethical standards compare
Local enterprise partnerships
Local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) are non-statutory bodies responsible for local economic development in England.
Hazel Blears
Hazel Blears was interviewed on 29 November 2021 for the Institute for Government’s Ministers Reflect project.
Johnny Mercer
Johnny Mercer discusses his work on veterans’ issues, trying to pass legislation in parliament. He also discusses working with Boris Johnson.
Supply chain problems
Since the summer of 2021, widespread disruption to supply chains has hit the headlines – both in the UK and globally.