Cabinet Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo is set to appear before Parliament’s Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) this week for a closely watched session examining the future of the Civil Service, proposed updates to the Cabinet Manual, and the government’s vetting procedures.
The hearing will mark Romeo’s first appearance before the committee since becoming Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service in February, making history as the first woman to hold the UK’s most senior civil service position.
MPs are expected to question Romeo on a wide range of issues, including the government’s plans to modernise Whitehall, improve productivity across departments, and expand the use of artificial intelligence within government operations. The session comes as the Cabinet Office pursues an ambitious programme of Civil Service reform aimed at improving delivery, accountability, and efficiency.
One of the key areas of focus will be the government’s planned revision of the Cabinet Manual, the document that sets out the rules, conventions, and procedures governing how government operates. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration has indicated that a refreshed version of the manual will be published in early 2027 as part of a broader effort to strengthen public trust in government institutions.
Romeo is also expected to face questions regarding government vetting procedures following recent political controversy surrounding senior public appointments. Committee members have signalled interest in how the Cabinet Office oversees due diligence processes and safeguards confidence in public administration.
The hearing comes as Romeo leads a major review into the future structure and performance of the Civil Service. The review is expected to examine the size and organisation of government departments, the impact of emerging technologies, recruitment and retention challenges, and how Whitehall can better deliver ministerial priorities while maintaining political impartiality.
Government officials argue that reforms are necessary to ensure the Civil Service can respond effectively to increasingly complex policy challenges, from artificial intelligence and national security to economic growth and public service delivery.
Political observers say the committee session could provide the clearest indication yet of how Starmer’s government intends to reshape the machinery of government over the coming years. With debates continuing over accountability, efficiency, and the role of senior officials, Romeo’s testimony is likely to be scrutinised by ministers, MPs, and Civil Service leaders alike.
The hearing is expected to offer important insight into the government’s long-term vision for Whitehall and the future direction of Britain’s public administration system.
