From protest to power: How can Reform's locally elected leaders govern effectively?

From protest to power: How can Reform's locally elected leaders govern effectively?

Author: Institute for Government September 8, 2025 Duration: 1:03:45
At this year’s local elections, the Reform Party secured outright majorities in 10 local authorities and won two metro mayor contests. As its local leaders make the transition from opposition to government, what skills will they need to be successful? What are the trade-offs they will have to make? How should they design and deliver policy? And how should they work with the Labour government in Westminster to deliver for voters locally? Listen to the IfG's fringe event at the Reform UK Party Conference 2025. Speakers: Dr Hannah White, Director and CEO, Institute for Government (chair) Cllr Linden Kemkaran, Leader of Kent County Council & County Councillor for Maidstone Southeast Akash Paun, Programme Director (Devolution), Institute for Government Gawain Towler, Former Head of Press, Reform UK

Ever wondered what really happens behind the doors of Whitehall? Institute for Government pulls up a chair at the table where policy is made and governance gets tested. This isn't about partisan politics or headlines; it's a deeper, more practical conversation about how the machinery of the UK government actually works-or sometimes, why it doesn't. Each episode brings you the experts from the Institute itself, along with senior civil servants, ministers, and analysts, for frank discussions that dissect the challenges of running a country. You'll hear specific case studies, analysis of major events as they unfold, and explorations of long-term issues like public service reform or the complexities of Brexit implementation. The goal is to move beyond theory and into the tangible details of effectiveness and accountability. Tuning into this podcast feels like gaining access to a privileged briefing, one that demystifies the processes that shape daily life. It’s for anyone curious about the structures of power, the art of the possible in policy, and the ongoing effort to improve how the nation is governed. Expect thoughtful, evidence-based dialogue that cuts through the noise to examine the levers of statecraft.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Institute for Government
Podcast Episodes
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