IfG DevoLab #3: How devolution can improve transport connectivity
The IfG DevoLab is a new initiative from the Institute for Government dedicated to exploring the innovations enabled by devolution, learning from the results, and sharing the lessons so that places can take better decisions about how to use devolved powers and budgets.
On 6 November, the IfG hosted its third IfG DevoLab event in Leeds, at which speakers from three regions set out how the powers and profile of mayors are being used to improve transport connectivity within and between their regions.
The three case studies presented at IfG DevoLab #3 were:
‘Improving transport connectivity in West Yorkshire’, by Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford City Council and Chair of the West Yorkshire Transport Committee
‘Connecting Liverpool City Region through Merseyrail’, by Huw Jenkins, Lead Officer - Transport Policy at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
‘Mayoral partnerships with Great British Railways’ by Richard Crabtree, Head of Mayoral Partnerships at Shadow Great British Railways
The three speakers were joined by Tom Bridges, UK Government Business Leader at Arup, for a broader discussion of how devolution can improve transport connectivity, how the government can support innovation and learning, and whether there is a case for further devolution in this area.
This event was chaired by Jill Rutter, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government.
Insights from this discussion will inform a published policy briefing containing the three case studies and a synthesis of key lessons.
We would like to thank Arup for kindly supporting this event.
We are also grateful to our strategic partner L&G for its wider support of the IfG DevoLab series.
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Leadership change in the civil service: How can new permanent secretaries deliver for government?
As well as the election of a new government, the last year has seen the appointment of a new cabinet secretary and eight new permanent secretaries to lead departments.
How will this new leadership cohort change the civil service? What should they prioritise as they get to grips with their new departments? And how can they build the most talented teams to deliver the government’s priorities?
To explore these questions, with a particular focus on the Civil Service Commission’s role in recruiting senior leaders and developing the talent pipeline, the IfG was delighted to be joined for a panel discussion on civil service leadership and change by:
Atul Devani, Civil Service Commissioner and entrepreneur
John-Paul Marks CB, First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of HM Revenue and Customs
Baroness Gisela Stuart, First Civil Service Commissioner
Baroness Stuart spoke briefly to consider the opportunities and challenges for the civil service. She spoke to the Commission’s strategic priorities for 2025–27.
The event was chaired by Alex Thomas, Programme Director at the Institute for Government.
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Productivity Pitches #8: Spreading innovation across public services
Productivity Pitches #8: Spreading innovation across public services by Institute for Government
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IfG DevoLab #2 How can mayors and strategic authorities secure investment into regional economies EDIT
IfG DevoLab #2 How can mayors and strategic authorities secure investment into regional economies EDIT by Institute for Government
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Local government reorganisation and public service delivery
Local government reorganisation and public service delivery by Institute for Government
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