In a dramatic announcement that could reshape Whitehall, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has unveiled plans to cut 140,000 Civil Service positions while making it significantly easier to dismiss underperforming officials.
The controversial proposal represents one of the most substantial reductions in public sector workforce in modern British history, targeting what Farage describes as "bloated bureaucracy" that has hampered government efficiency.
Streamlining the System
Under the radical reform package, the process for terminating civil servants would be dramatically simplified, addressing what party officials claim is excessive job protection that shields poor performers. The move comes amid growing criticism of Civil Service efficiency and mounting public spending concerns.
Culture War Front
Perhaps more controversially, Farage has vowed to completely eliminate what he terms the "woke agenda" from government operations. This would include banning diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that have become standard across many Whitehall departments in recent years.
"We need a Civil Service that focuses on delivering essential services to taxpayers, not pushing political agendas," Farage stated during the announcement, positioning the policy as a return to traditional governance principles.
Political Implications
The announcement signals Reform UK's continued push to position itself as the standard-bearer for conservative values in British politics. With the next general election looming, these proposals are likely to become a central talking point in debates about the size and scope of government.
Critics have already condemned the plans as potentially devastating to public services and accused Reform of pursuing ideological warfare at the expense of practical governance. Supporters, however, argue that drastic measures are necessary to restore accountability and fiscal responsibility to government operations.
