Keir Starmer’s Cabinet Secretary Should Learn from Chris Wormald’s Errors
The departure of Chris Wormald as cabinet secretary has raised significant concerns about the future of this vital role in the UK government. Wormald, who resigned in December 2024, failed to bring substantial changes to the civil service. This inability marks a critical responsibility for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose selection of Wormald did not follow a clear vision for transforming the civil service.
The Implications of Wormald’s Tenure
Wormald’s exit, occurring amid a political crisis, undermines the cabinet secretary position. The role has traditionally been a cornerstone for facilitating communication between senior government figures and for providing unvarnished advice. When cabinet secretaries function as mere ‘yes men,’ it diminishes their effectiveness and authority.
Challenges Ahead for Starmer
Starmer now faces a critical decision in appointing Wormald’s successor. He must consider whether the role can continue to encompass both the leadership of the civil service and serving as a trusted policy adviser. There is a compelling argument for separating these two responsibilities, indicating that the position of cabinet secretary may have become too complex for a single individual to manage effectively.
- Assess if splitting the cabinet secretary’s duties is necessary.
- Clearly define expectations for the next appointee.
Key Responsibilities for the Next Cabinet Secretary
To address the leadership void that has persisted, the incoming cabinet secretary must focus on two primary tasks:
- Rebuilding Legitimacy: Rediscovering political confidence among ministers is crucial. Many have lost trust in the civil service’s commitment to supporting the government’s agenda.
- Leading Openly and Confidently: Although certain government matters must remain confidential, it is essential that the next secretary promotes an active engagement rather than a passive role in civil service operations.
Restoring Confidence in Civil Service
Wormald’s brief tenure follows the equally lackluster term of Simon Case, necessitating a robust leader who can inspire the UK’s civil servants. With approximately half a million individuals in the civil service, strong leadership is imperative for charting a clear, actionable government agenda.
No appointment can single-handedly resolve the political complexities within the cabinet. However, the next cabinet secretary must be equipped to advocate for meaningful state reform. Starmer’s next choice must learn from recent past mistakes to ensure the civil service fulfills its essential role effectively.
