Published on 27 January 2025
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New research project to examine and strengthen intergovernmental structures and relationships

Joint research project examines new UK intergovernmental structure to help strengthen relations between central government, the devolved governments, and the English 'metro' mayors.

The Bennett Institute for Public Policy and PolicyWISE are collaborating on a new research project examining the recently established Council of the Nations & Regions. It will lead to an innovative report looking at how the Council might be developed; where it fits within the wider architecture of UK intergovernmental relations; and how it can contribute to better relations between central government, the devolved governments, and the English ‘metro’ mayors.

The report will draw on:

  • Insights from interviews with key policymakers in each UK nation.
  • A review of existing intergovernmental structures and research, as well as international case studies.
  • A historical appreciation of the distinctive ways in which relations between government heads have been institutionalised in the UK context, since devolution was first introduced.

The project will be the first dedicated research work to examine the Council of the Nations & Regions. This is the UK Government’s new flagship intergovernmental initiative, supporting the Prime Minister’s commitment to “reset/refresh” relationships across administrations.

The project aims to develop constructive recommendations aimed at policymakers and researchers across the UK. These will be published in March, ahead of the next meeting of the Council.

Professor Michael Kenny, Inaugural Director of the Bennett Institute for Public Policy said:

“The Council of the Nations and Regions marks a new development in the UK system of intergovernmental relations. But there are questions around the new forum that need further thought. What role should it play? How does it fit into the wider architecture of intergovernmental relations? And are there lessons from international and past UK experience to be learnt? As the second meeting of the Council approaches, our research will explore these questions and more.”

Dewi Knight, Director of PolicyWISE said:

“The UK Government has identified the council of nations and regions as a key vehicle for strengthening relationships between the four UK governments, and regional leadership in England. Our partnership with the Bennett Institute is focused on ensuring that the future development of this important initiative is informed by robust evidence and learning from both UK and international practices” 

This timely research initiative arrives at a crucial moment in the evolution of UK governance. By combining historical analysis, contemporary insights from policymakers, and international perspectives, the project promises to deliver valuable recommendations for strengthening intergovernmental cooperation across the UK.

Read more about the Council of the Nations & Regions project.


Image: By Number 10 – Prime Minister Keir Starmer host Council of Nations and Regions, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=153794237


The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the Bennett Institute for Public Policy.

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