Intergovernmental Relations Dashboard

Chris Ward Excerpts

Wednesday 25th March 2026 Written Statements

[The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Chris Ward)]

The Government commitment to working in genuine partnership with the devolved Governments continues to be reflected in the depth and consistency of our engagement.

As the Prime Minister said when he first came to office, to ensure that we are indeed a United Kingdom, it is crucial to give greater importance to respect and collaboration in the service of all people, across all parts of this country. This is essential to tackle our shared challenges and build a United Kingdom that works for everyone.

Between April and September 2025, UK Government Ministers held 214 meetings with their counterparts in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, across formal intergovernmental structures and direct bilateral engagement.

This level of contact, maintained even across the summer recess period, remains higher than in comparable periods and reflects the value we place on sustained, collaborative working relationships.

Beyond formal forums such as the British-Irish Council and Interministerial Standing Committee, ministers and their devolved counterparts met across a wide range of policy areas—from trade strategy and EU matters to migration and economic growth—demonstrating that collaborative working is now embedded across Government.

This pattern of engagement reflects a broader truth: that the most effective solutions for people across the United Kingdom are found when Governments work together, drawing on the knowledge and priorities of each Administration.

As the publication of this dashboard shows, this Government remain fully committed to the devolution settlements and genuine partnership with the devolved Governments to deliver for people all across the United Kingdom.

[HCWS1449]