Dame Antonia Romeo has been appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary and head of the Civil Service, becoming the first woman to hold the role since its creation over a century ago. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the appointment on Tuesday, replacing Sir Chris Wormald, who stepped down after just 14 months by mutual agreement.
Dame Antonia, previously the permanent secretary at the Home Office, was seen as the frontrunner for the position. She 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.'
Mr Starmer praised her 25-year record of public service, stating: 'I am delighted to appoint Dame Antonia Romeo as the new Cabinet Secretary. She is an outstanding public servant... 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.'
The appointment drew some scrutiny from former Foreign Office head Sir Simon McDonald, who suggested more due diligence was needed. However, First Civil Service Commissioner Baroness Gisela Stuart confirmed the process had been 'comprehensive'.
