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The think tank has said fresh leadership in Westminster and Holyrood offers a unique opportunity to work together to grow the economy, tackle child poverty and accelerate climate action.

Today Keir Starmer confirmed that 2026 will see a new Prime Minister, arriving just as the seventh session of the Scottish parliament settles in. Although it is not yet clear who will succeed him, whoever takes on the role will have a unique opportunity. This “double reset” offers the chance to pursue a bold collaborative agenda, one that learns from the ongoing processes of devolution across the UK to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Dave Hawkey, senior research fellow at IPPR Scotland, said:

“The political personalities in both Westminster and Holyrood are changing. But the challenges facing the country remain stubbornly in place: weak growth, persistent inequality, climate change and an ageing population.

“This moment presents an opportunity to move towards a bolder policy agenda with collaborative devolution at its heart. That means governments working together across the UK’s nations and regions to drive economic development and recognising so many of the common challenges faced in these islands need politicians to work together.”

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Dave Hawkey, senior research fellow at IPPR Scotland, is available for interview.

CONTACT:

Sukhada Tatke, media and impact officer at IPPR Scotland: s.tatke@ippr.org; 07901169121

NOTE TO EDITORS:

IPPR Scotland shapes public policy in pursuit of a fairer, greener, more prosperous Scotland.