The Mind of the Minister by Tom Brown COMING 28 Nov

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28 November 2024

Restoring trust between ministers and civil servants

Britain’s most important relationship has reached breaking point. The relationship between civil servants and ministers is the most critical element for government to function well and its health has reached a historic low. Centuries of carefully built trust and mutual understanding have been undermined and strained in a few short years. This relationship now needs urgent attention.

Ministers, famously, begin the job with an hour’s notice. There is an enormous amount to do and they are in at the deep end, often knowing very little about the department but bringing energy, drive and optimism for change. Over time these can be drowned by reality, accountability and crises. And then, eventually, by the distraction of promotion, demotion or a changing political landscape.

How do civil servants and ministers adjust to these different chapters in a ministerial lifespan? What really happens in the corridors of power? What can be done if rule makers become rule breakers without repercussions?