Commentary & Podcasts

Commentary

Ask the Expert: Alex Niven on culture, identity, and inequality in the North of England

In this ‘Ask the Expert’ interview, academic and writer Alex Niven discusses the lasting impact of deindustrialisation on the North of England. Questioning whether the government’s recent devolution commitments will deliver meaningful change for marginalised regions, he advocates for more radical reforms.

Published: 16 October 2024
Author: Jake Shepherd
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Commentary

Making sure that our seaside towns’ best days lie ahead of them

In this blog, Patrick Hurley MP urges the Labour government to fulfil its promise of a decade of national renewal, by marrying up a positive approach to seaside heritage with a modern approach to commerce and kick-starting flagging town economies.

Published: 09 October 2024
Author: Patrick Hurley
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Commentary

Next Conservative leader should aim to deliver a market that works for all

By exploring the evolution of Conservative thought in SMF papers, Theo Bertram sets out the challenge for the next leader - to be able to adapt free-market principles to deliver a societal vision that works for all.

Published: 28 September 2024
Author: Theo Bertram
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Commentary

The winter fuel payment should be means-tested, or scrapped altogether

In this blog, Director Theo Bertram sets out why the government shouldn't give into pressure against its decision to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment. Though the measure was introduced by the last Labour government, the circumstances are very different and do not warrant a universal payment.

Published: 09 September 2024
Author: Theo Bertram
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Commentary

Ask the Expert: Pia Sinha on prison reform

Poor prison conditions are drawing considerable political attention. This has prompted the new government to introduce emergency measures, while campaigners push for wider reforms. In this latest ‘Ask the Expert’ interview, Jake Shepherd speaks with Pia Sinha of the Prison Reform Trust to explore the key challenges facing prisons.

Published: 28 August 2024
Author: Jake Shepherd
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Commentary

Prevention is better than cure: Careers education and NEET reduction

Too many 16-18 year olds are falling out of the education and skills system, and in this guest blog, CEO of the Careers & Enterprise Company Oli de Botton explains how early intervention can help.

Published: 29 July 2024
Author: Oli de Botton
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