Research and analysis
We examine the questions that matter most for effective government.
Explore our research and analysis
The government’s integrated review describes but does not resolve foreign policy tensions
In implementing the “integrated review” of security, defence, development and foreign policy, the government will need to resolve tensions
NHS pay
Nurses and most other NHS staff were “offered” a 1% pay rise by the government. But how are decisions about NHS pay made?
Spending review 2021: what it means for public services
The spending envelope sets out the total amount of money the government plans to spend on departments and public services.
Delaying Brexit border checks solves some problems but creates others
The government’s decision to further delay Brexit border checks risks storing up problems for the future
One month of data offers few clues about the longer-term impact of Brexit on trade
Trade flows between the UK and the EU fell sharply in the first month the UK spent outside the single market
The chancellor needs to confront the costs of net zero
The budget was another missed opportunity to set out a plan for paying for net zero
Gaps in policy, not just operational failings, are the problem with Covid test and trace
However much the government spends on test and trace, the cash cannot make up for gaps in policy
Boris Johnson sets the tone on ministerial standards
It is prime ministers who decide whether ministers’ behaviour meets the standard required to remain in their roles
Harry, Meghan and the Queen: the questions a family feud poses about the monarchy’s future
The bigger fall out in the monarchy may come with the constitutional problems facing the succession
Sunak's Plan for Growth resembles a shopping list not a balanced prospectus
Giles Wilkes is left unimpressed by the chancellor's Plan for Growth