Evidence briefings

Researchers have analysed how transport infrastructure improvement affects the economic performance of firms, workers, local areas and regions. The findings show that improved infrastructure has a positive impact on local areas in terms of business and employment - but not at the level of individual firms.

Fast-growing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can help economies to recover from recession, by creating new jobs and introducing innovations. A review of SME growth indicates a need for partnerships and a regional focus, and highlights the value of holistic support measures for sustained growth.

Basing substantial gas investment on the assumption of low prices and large unconventional reserves is a risky option. A preferable, lower risk option would be a ‘dash for smart gas’ – with targeted use of natural gas in areas where it offers the greatest impact in decarbonising the power sector.

The British public are positive about the need to change the energy system - both how energy is supplied and consumed. A research report reveals a set of core values that people wish to see underpinning the future energy system.

States that have opened their labour markets ended up with somewhat larger migrant flows than those that did not - but these flows were heavily reduced by other states also opening their markets. Immigration policy is a ‘multi-level’ measure, including both the domestic electorate and the other potential destination states that are also setting rules.

Emerging findings suggest that even where immigrants are allowed access to work and services in specific areas to encourage UK integration, in practice they encounter a series of barriers in gaining this access.

The Creative Credits scheme initially boosted SME innovation and sales growth, but beyond the first six months these impacts were no longer statistically significant. This would not have been uncovered with normal evaluation methods - hence, randomised controlled trials should be used more widely in the evaluation of business support policies.

An analysis of economic policies over the last 80 years shows that the results of government interventions have been mixed. Increasing competition and lowering trade barriers lead to higher levels of productivity, while policies aimed at 'picking winners' tend to deliver poor results and are vulnerable to political whim.

The Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme markedly improved NHS treatment of mental illness. But in some areas the programme has not been followed up with the necessary expansion - with local commissioners even cutting mental health provision, despite receiving funding for IAPT roll-out.

Mental illness has huge cost implications for society and the NHS in terms of lost work days and healthcare. There is a need for more interventions and policies that promote social relationships and psychological wellbeing.