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Highlights: #216 – Ian Dunt on why governments in Britain and elsewhere can’t get anything done – and how to fix it

7 snips
May 27, 2025
Ian Dunt, a British author and political journalist, delves into the dysfunction of government structures. He highlights how a lack of understanding among ministers and frequent turnover among civil servants hinders effectiveness. Dunt discusses the dangers of expanded delegated legislation and advocates for independent-minded MPs. He proposes reforms for better governance, including proportional representation to enhance democratic integrity. The conversation provides insightful critiques of systemic challenges within British politics.
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INSIGHT

Government Inefficiency From Infrastructure

  • Governing a major economy from a small, old house is ineffective and hampers communication.
  • The setup encourages inefficient "professionalized loitering" around the prime minister rather than organized teamwork.
INSIGHT

Effective Organizational Culture Matters

  • Effectively organizing existing policy and strategy units can improve prime ministerial focus.
  • A collaborative, evidence-based management culture achieves measurable policy successes.
INSIGHT

Dangers of Delegated Legislation

  • Delegated legislation allows ministers to write laws with minimal or no parliamentary scrutiny.
  • This unchecked power risks arbitrary lawmaking, creating a profound danger to democracy.
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