UK think tanks cover a broad political spectrum, from the centre-right (Policy Exchange, IEA, Adam Smith Institute, Institute for Economic Affairs, Centre for Policy Studies) focusing on free markets and smaller government, to the centre-left (IPPR, Fabian Society, Resolution Foundation, NEF) advocating social justice and alternative economics, alongside centrist/liberal/cross-party groups (Demos, ResPublica, SMF, Nesta, Chatham House) addressing innovation, social policy, or broader EU/global issues, with influence often tied to proximity to parties like the Conservatives (Policy Exchange) or Labour (IPPR, Resolution Foundation). 

Right-Wing & Centre-Right

• Policy Exchange, Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Adam Smith Institute, Centre for Policy Studies (CPS): Strong free-market, small-state focus, closely associated with Conservative thinking, advocating lower spending and deregulation.

• Legatum Institute: Right-of-centre, promoting capitalism and democracy.

• Onward & Reform: Newer right-leaning groups influencing current government. 

Left-Wing & Centre-Left

• Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR): Progressive, focusing on social justice, public services, and alternative economic models.

• Fabian Society & Labour Together: Associated with the Labour Party, promoting centre-left policies.

• Resolution Foundation & Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF): Focus on improving living standards and tackling poverty, often engaging with Labour.

• New Economics Foundation (NEF): Promotes alternative economic models, social justice, and environment. 

Centrist, Liberal & Cross-Party

• Demos: Cross-party, focusing on social and political change.

• Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS): Independent economic research on UK taxation and policy.

• Nesta: Focuses on innovation across sectors.

• Chatham House: International affairs, academic research.

• Centre for European Reform (CER): Pro-European, focused on EU improvement.