UK’s civil service chief Simon Case to stand down at end of year

Cupboard Secretary Mr Case, who has been present process therapy for a neurological situation, advised colleagues “while the spirit stays prepared, the physique is just not”.

There have been studies of tensions on the coronary heart of No 10 between Mr Case and Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of employees Sue Grey, however the Cupboard Secretary stated: “It’s a disgrace that I really feel I’ve to spell this out, however my determination is solely to do with my well being and nothing to do with anything.”

Mr Case returned to work in January after two months off sick and he stated he had been “present process medical therapy for a neurological situation during the last 18 months”.

A recruitment course of for the subsequent cupboard secretary has begun.

In an indication of the turbulence in British politics, Mr Case stated: “It has been an honour to serve two sovereigns, 4 prime ministers and over 120 Cupboard ministers on this position.

“There have been much more ups than downs alongside the way in which and by far the best spotlight has been the privilege of working with so many exceptional public servants, throughout the size and breadth of our nation, in our abroad posts and with counterparts from our shut allies and companions all over the world.”

Sir Keir Starmer thanked Mr Case for his work and stated he had been “very lucky to have the ability to draw on Simon’s recommendation in my first weeks and months as Prime Minister”.

“It’s proper that Simon takes time now to concentrate on his well being, and he ought to know that he does so with the properly needs of this Authorities and all those that he has served throughout a very exceptional profession,” Sir Keir added.

Mr Case was appointed Cupboard Secretary by Boris Johnson in September 2020.

Proof on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry revealed he was usually exasperated by the administration.

He stated he discovered Mr Johnson’s fashion of working “very irritating” and described his day-to-day administration as “dysfunctional”.

In July 2020, earlier than he turned Cupboard Secretary, Mr Case stated: “I’ve by no means seen a bunch of individuals much less well-equipped to run a rustic.”

He additionally described Mr Johnson and his internal circle as “mainly feral” and advised the then-prime minister’s spouse Carrie was “the true individual in cost” in No 10.

Mr Case had beforehand labored as personal secretary to the then Duke of Cambridge, the present Prince of Wales.