General Election - Access Talks - The Opposition Gets Ready for Goverment With Civil Service Talks

22nd January 2024

The Institute for Government (IFS) has published some interesting facts about how an opposition party prepares to take over the reins of government.

Although we do not have a confirmed date for the UK election it will happen in 2024.

Access talks are an opportunity for the opposition to hold confidential talks with the civil service about their plans for government. They can be a vital part of preparation for government in the run-up to a general election. This IfG Insight is based on IfG research, including interviews with past participants, and provides advice to the opposition and civil servants on getting the best out of access talks.

Why do access talks matter?
Access talks have been a feature of civil service planning for decades, usually beginning in the 12-16 months prior to the end of a parliament - that is, before the latest date a general election, and so a potential change of government, will take place . If embraced, the talks can be of great help both for the civil service and oppositions, in that they can help:

the civil service to prepare for the opposition's key priorities and plans for early in a new government.

ensure the civil service understands policies beyond what is in public statements and the manifesto.

shadow teams get to grips with their department more quickly if there is a change of government.

the leader of the opposition, currently Keir Starmer, plan the kind of government they want to run and prepare for the transition into No.10.

build trust and understanding. They are a chance for shadow ministers to understand what may become their future department and build relationships with key civil servants. They also give civil servants an opportunity to get to know the future ministers they may be serving, and how they like to work.

Read the full article HERE

PHOTO
Keir Hardie in Trafalgar Square, London in 1908