Founded in 2004, the Centre for Public Policy for Regions (CPPR) is concerned with the role of public policy in promoting economic and social development in Scotland and beyond.
The purpose of the CPPR is two-fold: it provides 'Quality academic research for better public policies', and since it’s inception it has developed a unique role in Scotland providing research and commentary on Scotland's public finances, the Scottish economy and wider public policy issues. To achieve its goals it publishes reports, papers and hold seminars and policy briefings on the key economic and social challenges facing Scotland and other regions.
We are independent of any political or corporate bodies. Given this position, we are routinely cited by all political parties across Scotland. We have also been regular contributors to Newsnight Scotland, the Scotsman and the Herald, with a number of editorials being devoted to our work; we have been invited to discuss ideas with political parties and groups like the Fabians; attended private meetings with policy makers; and make contributions to the David Hume Institute lectures.
On an annual basis we expect to focus our work in the following main areas:
Regular
- analysis of the impact of the annual UK Budget on both the wider Scottish economy and the Scottish Government's budget;
- assessment of the Scottish Government's Budget choices;
- analysis of the quarterly data on Scottish GDP and Scottish labour market statistics;
- analysis of the annual Scottish Government’s Expenditure and Revenue Statements (GERS).
Occasional
- analysis of specific services, building on analysis already carried out in areas such as health, education and water, as well as on new areas;
- analysis of the Scottish oil and gas sector;
- analysis of the implementation challenges to the Scotland Bill on the Calman proposals;
- analysis of the UK Government's Spending Review and the Scottish Government's (as well as other Scottish political parties) reaction to it.
Prof. Richard Harris
Director, CPPR