Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff Appointment

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The shadow Secretary of State questioned the nature, responsibilities, salary status, and relationship with other officials and departments of the new chief of staff role. She pointed out that it was a chaotic move lacking clarity.

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The Member expressed confidence in the new chief of staff’s capabilities, highlighting his experience across multiple departments and roles.

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The Member cited Erskine May's rules disqualifying civil servants from serving in the House and questioned whether Steve Barclay’s roles violate these guidelines.

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The Member suggested focusing the Government’s efforts on fewer priorities to improve performance.

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The Member questioned how Steve Barclay would manage multiple roles effectively and serve constituents.

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The Member asked for reassurance that the restructuring would not disrupt Government operations and focus solely on delivering promises.

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Asks about the impact of the new appointment on response times to parliamentary questions, citing concerns over increased responsibilities.

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Welcomes the move towards greater accountability by having Members of Parliament fill key roles, questioning if Dominic Cummings would have been an appropriate choice earlier.

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Questions whether increased accountability can be claimed when the appointee is absent from his post and criticises the move as confusing government operations.

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Challenges Labour's criticism of the appointment, suggesting they should win an election to have input in who works at No. 10.

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Asks about the cost implications of the changes and whether public money will be spent on refurbishing Downing Street.

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Expresses confidence in the effectiveness of the new role and anticipates positive narrative from No. 10.

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Links the appointment to recent controversies surrounding the Prime Minister's statements and questions its basis in merit.

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Welcomes the cost-saving measures inherent in the new arrangement, particularly that no additional salary will be paid to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

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Questions whether the new chief of staff will manage communications and rules out any future lobbying activities for the appointee.

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Suggests streamlining operations in No. 10 can lead to efficiencies, citing past experiences with the appointee.

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Requests an example of decision-making authority unique to the new chief of staff role compared to previous responsibilities.

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Asks if Labour opposes following recommendations from the Grey report regarding governance restructuring.

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Questions whether the appointee will be able to provide detailed answers on responsibilities once they are clarified.

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Invites Minister to discuss TV show characters as an analogy for strengths in the appointee’s role.

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Asks about intergovernmental relations, particularly with Wales and Scotland, regarding policy announcements from the UK Government.

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Emphasises the importance of having a Member of Parliament, especially from the Fens, to provide non-metropolitan perspectives in delivering government priorities.

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Asks for assurances that the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will continue to address the civil service fast track system's failure in recruiting black members of staff.

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Inquires if solving the illegal crossings crisis in the channel remains a top priority for the Government.

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Questions if the recent appointment of a non-traditional Spad role at Downing Street will be unique or part of a new trend.

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Asks whether recent staff departures from Downing Street are related to Sue Grey’s report findings, and if there have been any associated culpability determinations.