Simon Case must use his appointment to end the toxic culture of blaming civil servants to save politicians’ skins

It has been confirmed today that Simon Case will replace Sir Mark Sedwill as Cabinet Secretary.

Simon Case has had numerous roles in the civil service, is a former private secretary for Prince William and is said to have a good working relationship with the Prime Minister.

Case’s appointment follows the resignation of Sir Mark Sedwill and comes at a time when senior civil servants are increasingly being blamed for governmental failings.

Garry Graham, Prospect deputy general secretary, said:

“Prospect congratulates the new head of the civil service Simon Case on his appointment and looks forward to working with him.

“Commentators have remarked on his close working relationship with the Prime Minister which is important. He should use his new appointment to demand an immediate end to the ‘off the record’ briefings against civil servants from Number 10 and emphasise the need for ministers to take responsibility for the decisions they make.

“The toxic culture of blaming civil servants to save political skins must end.”