This Library Note aims to provide background reading for the debate on 20 January 2011: "To call attention to the constitutional and parliamentary effect of Coalition Government".
Debate on 20 January: Constitutional and Parliamentary Effect of Coalition Government (464KB PDF)
This Note examines some of the issues surrounding government by coalition, particularly those highlighted since the formation of the current Coalition in May 2010. It considers constitutional issues that arose before and immediately after the 2010 general election, then sets out the administrative arrangements put in place to allow the Coalition Cabinet and machinery of government to function. It examines issues that have both constitutional and parliamentary significance (fixed term parliaments, the Salisbury Doctrine, government majority in the House of Lords) and, finally, deals with practical parliamentary matters such as Short/Cranborne money, seating arrangements, and parliamentary procedure and language.
Debate on 20 January: Constitutional and Parliamentary Effect of Coalition Government (464KB PDF)
In January 2026, the government announced a new scheme to support urgent repairs and essential improvements to listed places of worship. Called the ‘Places of worship renewal fund for England’, it replaced the ‘Listed places of worship grant scheme’ which had run since 2001. This briefing provides an overview of both schemes, the government’s reasoning for the change and the reaction of stakeholders.
Social media and other technologies have made it easier, quicker and cheaper for foreign powers to spread false information online aimed at undermining UK democracy. Such disinformation campaigns are one type of interference operation. In parallel, researchers have noted a link between declining public trust and societal polarisation, which can be exacerbated by online discourse. This briefing provides introductory reading to these issues, including recent reports and government announcements.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as ME or chronic fatigue syndrome, is a long-term health condition that is estimated to affect over 400,000 people in the UK. It is a fluctuating condition with symptoms including fatigue, sleep problems and brain fog. In 2025 the government published its final delivery plan on ME, which aimed to improve care and support for those with the condition.
