Sir Chris Wormald, a senior civil servant, is departing from Sir Keir Starmer's team at Downing Street and is expected to receive a substantial payout of £260,000. This payment, which acknowledges his 35 years of dedicated service, has sparked significant attention as it surpasses the £95,000 threshold that typically necessitates authorisation from the Treasury.
Ministerial Direction Required for Approval
Reports indicate that Sir Keir Starmer had to issue a "ministerial direction" to approve the £260,000 payout, as it reportedly did not align with standard regulatory requirements. This move highlights the exceptional nature of the payment and the procedural complexities involved in such high-level civil service departures.
Context of High-Profile Departures
Sir Chris's exit is part of a broader trend of notable departures from the prime minister's team, following other high-profile figures such as Morgan McSweeney and Tim Allan. These exits have raised questions about stability and continuity within the government's senior ranks.
Succession and Allegations
Dame Antonia Romeo is currently viewed as the leading candidate to succeed Sir Chris in his role. However, her candidacy is under scrutiny due to allegations of bullying, which have prompted calls for careful vetting. Water Minister Emma Hardy has emphasised the need for thorough background checks in the appointment process.
The situation underscores ongoing challenges in managing civil service transitions and ensuring accountability in public sector payouts.
