Summary:
This contribution puts forward five recommendations for how the government can successfully deliver its forthcoming Integrated Review. First, it stresses the need for the government to secure political buy-in from Cabinet ministers, especially with regard to its long-term strategic objectives. Second, the report proposes the creation of an effective communications and feedback mechanism inside of government—one which might ensure that the implementation is being carried out in line with its original aims. Third, the government should invest time and money in the right capabilities, resources and expertise inside of government. The Integrated Review, once it is published, should also be open to revision and re-invention, depending on changing circumstances and new challenges. Finally, Parliament has a crucial role to play in the implementation stage. In particular, the Foreign Affairs Select Committee and the Defence Select Committee, among others, must continue to scrutinise Britain’s foreign, security, defence and development policies.
