Undergraduate politics students from Edge Hill University’s Politics Lab have had their research officially published by the House of Commons. A remarkable achievement that underlines the Lab’s commitment to real-world impact and student-led inquiry.
Select Committee research papers
Select Committees are a very important part of the way Parliament scrutinises the work of the Government. They check and report on areas ranging from the work of government departments to economic affairs. They examine policy formation and delivery, public spending, and the way departments are run.
With support from the Edge Hill University Politics Lab, students have provided written evidence submissions for UK government select committees that have been successfully accepted and published for the following areas:
UK Economic Security, Arms & Exports
First-year students Jamie Holliday and Charlie Murphy have had their research published by the House of Commons Select Sub-Committee on Business and Trade. Their submission investigates the tension between economic prosperity and national security, contributing to the ongoing scrutiny of the UK’s arms exports.
Read the written evidence (ECO0007)
Resetting the UK-EU Relationship
A second project, led by third-year Max Tinkler brought together a cross-disciplinary team including James McConnell, Caileigh Russell, Ella Weatherburn, and Samuel White. Their research on the future of UK-EU relations has been published by the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, offering timely insights into post-Brexit cooperation.
Read the written evidence (EUR0006)
“One of the highlights of our research was the fact that it covered such a significant and relevant issue which we all cared deeply about. Contributing to the discourse around something so important and relevant made us feel proud and lucky to be a part of such a significant moment in our country’s politics and international relations, making us feel involved- like we could have our say.
I have benefited greatly from the Edge Hill Politics Lab. In addition to this project- which deepened my understanding of international relations and diplomacy, I have improved my formal writing skills- I have organised events, communicated with external bodies and political representatives, chaired a conference, enhanced my public speaking skills, and made many lasting friendships. I am grateful to Edge Hill for all the opportunities I have received.”
Max Tinkler
BA (Hons) History & Politics
“We are constantly identifying research opportunities with Parliamentarians and other political stakeholders. Staff help develop this research, for which students receive sole credit. The research published by the Select Committees will now inform MPs and Lords, and possibly even be used to scrutinise the government – a Cabinet Minister could be challenged based on evidence provided by our students!
Our Politics Lab is a brilliant opportunity to develop skills, networks, and CVs, and our students enter the workplace with a developing portfolio of real world, high-profile, high-quality research. Students from any discipline are welcome to join.”
Dr Steven Daniels
Lecturer in Politics
Politics and International Relations at Edge Hill University
These successes are testament to the ethos of our Politics Lab – a space where Edge Hill students tackle real policy challenges, collaborate across disciplines, and engage with decision-makers.
Get involved in high-impact research, sharpen your analytical skills, and contribute to the conversations shaping our future. There has never been a better time to study Politics and International Relations. Employers are increasingly looking for graduates who understand political and geopolitical realities.
If you’re fascinated by why decisions are taken and what that means for people locally, nationally and globally, then politics and international relations is for you.
July 7, 2025
