The Core Executive
The network of institutions and people at the centre of UK government who control policy-making, including the PM, cabinet, senior civil servants, and key advisers.
Real World
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dominic Cummings as Boris Johnson's chief adviser wielded enormous influence over policy from within the core executive, despite being unelected — illustrating how power in the core executive extends well beyond cabinet ministers.
Exam Focus
Reference the Rhodes model by name when discussing the core executive — examiners reward academic terminology over vague descriptions of 'central government'.
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