Public confidence in how the UK’s governments work together is low, posing a significant challenge for the functioning of the Union

A new PolicyWISE report reveals (and compares) the policy priorities of the public in both Scotland and Wales, what support there is for governments co-operating, attitudes towards the UK government, and much more. The polling was conducted by More in Common on behalf of PolicyWISE between 30 January - 10 February 2026. 1,035 were polled in Scotland, and 806 in Wales.

Governments in Scotland, Wales and Westminster are failing to deliver on the public’s priorities because they are not working effectively together, according to new polling. Just 26% of Scots and 20% of people in Wales believe their devolved governments and the UK Government cooperate well, with majorities saying collaboration is possible but not currently happening. This will be a significant issue for May’s devolved elections and for how the new devolved governments and the UK Labour government reset relationships.

Yet frustration has not translated into support for confrontation: 95% across both nations want stronger, more constructive intergovernmental working. Voters say closer cooperation is needed on the issues that matter most including the cost of living, the economy, the NHS, energy, immigration and tackling violence against women and girls. The public wants to see their governments co-operating, no matter which government has the lead policy responsibility.

People also told us that they believe progress is achievable if political leaders prioritise joint working, even where compromise is required. The survey is the first of its kind to examine public attitudes specifically towards governmental cooperation in Scotland and Wales. 

The polling also reveals public attitudes on devolved government compared to Westminster, what good government co-operation should look like, and perceptions of the Westminster government as an English or UK authority.

Dewi Knight, Director of PolicyWISE, commented on the findings:

“The public in Scotland and Wales have sent a clear message to the UK Government, and whoever wins May’s elections in both nations. Stop falling out with each other and making it even more difficult to tackle major policy issues. You must work together on the public’s priorities such as the Cost of Living, the NHS and immigration.

There’s huge frustration in both devolved nations. A majority believes that their devolved governments could work well with Westminster but are not doing so currently. This is the same whether it’s SNP or Labour in power in devolved government, alongside the Labour UK Government. And they want governments to work together on devolved and reserved issues.

PolicyWISE research on better intergovernmental relations shows that we need new ways of working in partnership across our nations to achieve shared policy goals. With the distinct possibility of an even more complex and competitive political landscape after May’s elections, better co-operation must be a priority.

No-one governing authority in the UK – including the UK Government – can achieve its priorities alone. Our leaders and ministers across our governments need to co-operate and co-ordinate action in areas of common interest. It’s what the public expects and deserves.”

You can watch the full discussion here: Exclusive new polling in Scotland & Wales – a discussion about what it might mean