FDA calls Government pensions policy 'incoherent' and warns of a 'tidal wave' of demand for choice among senior civil servants

Responding to press enquires, Paul Whiteman, the FDA official responsible for members in the FCO, confirmed today that Mr Murray's application for voluntary early severance had been accepted by the FCO. Mr Murray?s service ended on 11 February 2005.

Asked if Mr Murray's decision to apply for severance was in any way related to the apparent disagreements between the former Ambassador to Uzbekistan and the Foreign Office, Whiteman said: "I think it is quite wrong to suggest that the FCO have sought to 'buy off' Craig Murray. This is a very complex case. Mr Murray is a passionate advocate for human rights and his style has certainly brought him into conflict with his bosses. Mr Murray has acted in good faith and in accordance with his conscience. But the past two years have put Mr Murray under enormous strain. It was entirely his decision to apply for early severance from the FCO. He did so in accordance with the terms of the FCOs current programme to reduce its staff numbers, the criteria for which Mr Murray met given the particular compassionate and medical circumstances."

"For the FDA, Mr Murray?s wellbeing has to be the primary consideration. We therefore fully supported his application. The FCO and Mr Murray differ fundamentally on a number of issues in relation to this case. But irrespective of the arguments it is clear that the mutual bond of trust between the employer and employee has irrevocably broken down.

"Against that background I am pleased that the FCO has demonstrated its own concern for Mr Murray's health and welfare and has responded positively to Mr Murray?s application on compassionate grounds, rather than preventing an application for severance because of an outstanding investigation."

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Notes for Editors
1. The FDA is the trade union and professional body representing the UK's 12,000 senior civil and public servants. Our members include policy advisors, senior managers, tax inspectors, economists, statisticians, accountants, special advisers, government lawyers, crown prosecutors and NHS managers.

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