Download a Q&A between James Purnell and ippr

Commenting on the appointment, John Makinson said:

"I am delighted that someone of James's calibre and experience is to take over the chairmanship. As the UK's leading progressive think tank, ippr is at the heart of debates about how best to respond to the critical challenges facing our country. James's political insights and breadth of policy expertise will be a major asset to the organisation in that process."

James will assume the role of chair at the beginning of September.

James Purnell said about his new role:

“I am thrilled to be taking on the role of chair at ippr, an organisation I know well and once worked for. Ippr has always been at the heart of the debate about progressive politics in Britain, and has a vital role to play in the new political landscape.

"I am delighted to be assuming from John Makinson the chairmanship of an organisation which is in great shape thanks to the work of the co-directors Carey Oppenheim and Lisa Harker. It has already been announced that they are leaving to take on new challenges. I look forward to working closely with the new Director to build on ippr’s strengths and to respond to new challenges.

"This is a critical time in our politics. Following election defeat, Labour is choosing a new leader and starting the process of coming up with new policies. Ippr will be central to the debates about how the centre left rebuilds and becomes a stronger force for change. At the same time, the new Coalition government has made much of its commitment to progressive ideas. ippr has good relations with the new administration and we continue to aim to develop ideas that are adopted as policy, in Westminster and beyond.”