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
Conservative Party leadership contests
The last full election for the leadership of the Conservative Party was held between 13 July and 5 September 2022.
Shona Robison
Shona Robison reflects on transforming the health and care system, getting government out of its silos and delivering the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Budgets
Governments require parliament’s approval to spend money, as well as to raise revenue in the form of taxes.
Ieuan Wyn Jones
Ieuan Wyn Jones reflects on leading Plaid Cymru into government for the first time.
Irish backstop
The Northern Ireland backstop was an arrangement for the Irish border that was part of Theresa May’s Brexit deal.
No-deal Brexit: UK preparations
The UK’s no-deal readiness is about more than just government – it means public bodies, individuals, and above all businesses taking action to prepare
Scottish independence
How could a second referendum on Scottish independence happen?
Andy Kerr
Andy Kerr reflects on making tricky spending decisions, trying to reform a “dysfunctional” health system and implementing the smoking ban.
Alex Neil
Alex Neil reflects on civil service advice, preparing to take on social security powers and attempts to modernise the health system.
Alun Michael
Alun Michael reflects on the first year of devolution to Wales, the importance of joining up policies at the local level and his time in government.