Local Government
Local government reform meets reality
The pause in local government reorganisation shows how difficult structural change can be to realise. Does this widen the gap between pledges and delivery?
8 September 2026
Democracy Insight
Politics Explained
Democracy Insight explains how councils, Parliament, elections, public meetings and political decisions work, in plain English and without party spin.
We publish articles, practical guides, videos and promote campaigns to improve democracy. The site is for people who want to understand public life, and take part with confidence.
Latest from the blog
The Time Has Come to Make Every Vote Count
Andy Burnham's National Commission on Electoral Reform creates a rare opportunity to replace First Past the Post with a system voters can believe in.
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More recent analysis
Planning and Place
What Mayoral Call-In Means for Local Democracy
New planning powers could strengthen English devolution, but they also expose a fault line between regional growth and local democracy.
26 August 2026
Planning and Place
The Problem with Planning Committees
Planning committees are supposed to balance local democratic accountability with the wider need for development. Too often, however, the incentives facing councillors favour those who shout loudest.
9 August 2026
Standards and Ethics
The Case for Increased Security for MPs
The shocking murder of Ann Widdecombe must result in meaningful change to protect politicians and the integrity of our democracy.
15 July 2026
Leadership
Starmer Departs as Politics Finally Felt Human
Keir Starmer's resignation raises questions about leadership, public connection and whether uncontested succession strengthens or weakens democracy.
22 June 2026