Politics Home Article | Antonia Romeo Appointed As Head Of Civil Service

Romeo replaces Wormald in the role (Alamy)

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Romeo replaces Sir Chris Wormald, who stood down as head of the civil service last week.

The changes come amid a wider reshuffle at the top of government. In recent weeks, Morgan McSweeney has resigned as Starmer’s chief of staff, and Tim Allan quit as the Prime Minister’s communications director, following outrage over the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador despite being aware of links to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Romeo, who was formerly permanent secretary at the Home Office, was widely expected to be Starmer’s pick after Wormald’s departure.

However, her ascension to the most senior role in the civil service has triggered an extraordinary briefing row.

Previous allegations of Romeo’s use of expenses and bullying of staff when she was the UK’s consul general in New York resurfaced, despite investigations at the time concluding there was “no case to answer”.

In an interview with Channel 4 last week, former senior civil servant Simon McDonald said that the government should carry out “more due diligence” before appointing Romeo.

Former colleagues have come to her defence, however. Ex-cabinet minister Robert Buckland told The House magazine that Romeo is an “extremely impressive person”.

Meanwhile, one high-ranking civil servant, an ally of Romeo, described McDonald’s behaviour as outrageous.

“At all levels of the civil service, there is a feeling of sheer outrage that a retired civil servant could launch an attack on an existing one, knowing she can’t defend herself against it. It is a drive-by on her, and deeply damaging to the institution.”

Starmer said on Thursday morning: “I am delighted to appoint Dame Antonia Romeo as the new cabinet secretary. She is an outstanding public servant, with a 25‑year record of delivering for the British people.

“Since becoming prime minister, I’ve been impressed by her professionalism and determination to get things done. Families across the country are still feeling the squeeze, and this government is focused on easing the cost of living, strengthening public services and restoring pride in our communities. It is essential we have a cabinet secretary who can support the government to make this happen.

“Antonia has shown she is the right person to drive the government to reform, and I look forward to working with her to deliver this period of national renewal.”

Responding to her appointment, Romeo said: “It is a huge privilege to be asked to serve as cabinet secretary and head of the civil service.

“The civil service is a great and remarkable institution, which I love. We should be known for delivery, efficiency and innovation, working to implement the government’s agenda and meet the challenges the country faces.

“I look forward to working with all colleagues across the civil service to do this, in support of the prime minister and the government.”