The civil service is an important part of government that must remain politically independent and free of Downing street interference
The civil service is an important part of government that must remain politically independent and free of Downing street interference. This is vital to ensure that the decisions made are those that are the best for the country. So when ministers like Priti Patel make it difficult for civil servants to do their job effectively, we all suffer as a result. Particularly those in the Home Office who deal with such important issues; the resignation of people like Sir Phillip Rutman therefore having the potential to be detrimental to national security. It also sets a dangerous precedent, if Priti Patel is allowed to bully civil servants out of office, then what is to stop every other minister doing the same? This threatens to seriously undermine the integrity of the civil service with a profoundly damaging effect.
this government seems to expect complete capitulation
The fact that Boris Johnson has refused to even address this issue shows a serious issue with the government, inferring that they believe that the majority that they received in 2019 enables them to disregard political norms, and to act completely free from scrutiny. The relationship between the government and civil service is supposed to be one of co-operation, working together for the good of the country, but this government seems to expect complete capitulation. This is dangerous and should not be allowed to continue.