STORY
Reform UK has set out plans to abolish the Cabinet Office and the post of Cabinet Secretary as part of a proposed overhaul of Whitehall. The plan would create an Office of the Prime Minister and place more power in the hands of ministers and politically appointed advisers.
The blueprint, associated with Reform MP Danny Kruger, also proposes substantial reductions in parts of the civil service, including policy, communications and human resources functions. Reform argues that the existing machinery of Government is too slow and resistant to ministerial direction, while critics are likely to see the proposals as a move towards politicising the permanent civil service.
The plan underlines Reform’s attempt to move beyond protest politics and present a programme for Government. It would also create a major constitutional and administrative battle if implemented, particularly with civil service unions and former senior officials who argue that political neutrality is central to stable Government.