Context
Centre for Economics and Business Research report suggested the UK may need 92,000 more public workers by 2030 due to productivity falls. Reports indicate a potential 10% civil service headcount cut by the end of the decade.
Question
Many of my Chelmsford constituents are civil servants who travel into London most days to perform their jobs. A report revealed the UK may need 92,000 more public workers by 2030 due to productivity falls in the sector. However, the Cabinet Office has refused to comment on reports that the Government plan a 10% cut to civil service headcount by the end of the decade. Will the Minister confirm today whether a 10% cut to civil service headcount is planned and if any of that will take the form of compulsory redundancy?
Answer from The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
We are not targeting a reduction in civil service headcount but aim for productivity improvements from civil servants. We do not have a target for headcount reduction, unlike what was attempted under the previous government, which did not work. Our focus is on reducing administrative and overhead costs while working with civil servants to achieve these goals.
Not addressed: Did not confirm or deny a 10% cut but focused on productivity improvements instead of headcount reduction
How: We Are Focusing On Productivity Rather Than Headcount
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