Sir Michael Barber argues for new approach to government with lecture at University of Exeter

His premise is that billions of citizens around the world are frustrated with their governments. Political leaders struggle to honour their promises and officials find it near impossible to translate ideas into action. This often results in high taxes, but poor outcomes.

In his book Michael Barber draws on his wealth of experience of working for and with government leaders across the world to present a blueprint for how to run a government, delivering much better results for citizens without excessive taxes. Potentially the first book to bring a global perspective to this issue and using contemporary cases from every continent alongside classic examples from history, anecdote and hard evidence, Barber makes a compelling case for a new approach, arguing that, without massive improvements in delivery, trust in government, already low, will fall further putting democracy at risk. From Downing Street to Punjab, Charles I to Churchill, How To Run a Government shows that the solution is less about ideology and more about sustained priorities, solving problems as they arise and not giving up when the going gets tough.

The lecture will take place on Tuesday 5 May at 18.00 – 19.30 in the Henderson Lecture Theatre, Xfi Building, Streatham Campus. It will be followed by a drinks reception and book signing. The lecture is free and open to staff, students and members of the public who have registered their attendance by email to our Events Team.