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
UK–EU future relationship negotiations: how do the opening positions compare?
The EU has published its draft negotiating objectives and the UK has set out its own opening position in a written ministerial statement.
David Mundell
David Mundell talks about his time in the Scotland Office and his relationship with the Scottish government during the 2014 independence referendum.
High Speed 2 costs
High Speed 2 (HS2) is a proposal to build a high-speed rail line in two parts – ‘Phase 1’ between London and Birmingham, and then ‘Phase 2’ between Bi
Government reshuffles
A reshuffle is when government ministers are moved between posts.
COBR (COBRA)
COBR’s purpose is high-level co-ordination and decision making in the event of major or catastrophic emergencies.
David Lidington
David Lidington reflects on David Cameron’s renegotiation of the UK’s EU membership and the 2016 referendum and being Theresa May’s deputy.
Brexit spending: government preparations
By the end of 2020/21 the government is expecting to have spent up to £8.1bn on preparing for Brexit and the end of the transition period.
Election of select committee chairs and members in the House of Commons
This explainer sets how select committee chairs and members are elected.
Northern Ireland: restoration of the power-sharing executive
In January 2020, the Northern Ireland Assembly nominated a new Northern Ireland executive, ending the three-year deadlock.
Jeremy Hunt
Jeremy Hunt reflects on his nine years in the cabinet, including serving as the longest-serving health secretary, and his role in the Leveson Inquiry.