Fresh thinking to improve policy-making process
27 Ionawr 2014
A network of academics, research organisations and think tanks brought together to provide independent, expert advice to Welsh Government Ministers, has been officially launched by the First Minister Carwyn Jones.
Led by the University, the Public Policy Institute for Wales (PPIW) will provide fresh thinking on how best to improve Wales' public services.
It will also enable the Welsh Government to access independent experts from across Wales, the UK and beyond, and tap into the best ideas, research and evidence to inform the making and delivery of policy in Wales.
The First Minister said: "Getting more impact from our public resources is crucial at this time. We know that budgets are being squeezed and we need to be prepared for the effects this will have.
"The PPIW offers a wide range of experience and expertise to challenge, inform and provide fresh thinking so that we as a government can better identify priorities, create robust policy and most importantly deliver for the people of Wales."
The PPIW is a Programme for Government commitment designed to promote better outcomes for the people of Wales by improving the effectiveness of policy development and service delivery in Wales. Ministers are able to request the PPIW to consider and provide advice on a wide-range of cross-cutting issues.
Professor Steve Martin, Director of the PPIW, said: "The creation of the PPIW is an exciting and innovative approach that which gives Ministers direct access to independent expert advice. It reflects the growing recognition, in Wales and around the world, that evidence and knowledge derived from research can play an important part in helping to improve policy decisions."
The PPIW is overseen by an independent Board of Governors, chaired by Sir Adrian Webb, to ensure it is driven to meet Ministers' needs. Organisations already recruited to the expert network include research groups based in the London School of Economics, Aberystwyth, Bangor, Cardiff, Glamorgan, Liverpool and Swansea Universities.