Selection on merit
David Cameron’s former Chief of Staff has been appointed as the UK’s ambassador in Paris from November, after being put forward for the job by the former Prime Minister.
Ed Llewellyn held the post of Cameron’s Chief of Staff for eleven years, both in power and Opposition.
The FDA – representing members of the Diplomatic Services Association, a section of the union – warned that the appointment risks undermining the process of filling key ambassadorial posts on merit.
“Ambassadorial posts are key to securing the UK’s interests abroad,” said General Secretary Dave Penman.
“Diplomats undergo years of training and are initially selected through open and fair competition.
“Whatever the individual merits Mr Llewellyn may have, the appointment undermines the principles of selection on merit that underpins the political neutrality of the civil service.
“Perhaps more crucially, if ambassadorial appointments are seen to be in the gift of outgoing Prime Ministers, this undermines both this appointment and the professionalism of the entire service.”
Llewellyn was also appointed a life peer in the former Prime Minister’s resignation honours list.
Related News
-
“An outstanding leader with a proven track record” – FDA responds to Dame Antonia Romeo appointment
The FDA has welcomed the appointment of former Home Office Permanent Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo as Cabinet Secretary, following the departure of Sir Chris Wormald last week.
-
“New low” for government’s relationship with civil service – FDA responds following departure of Cabinet Secretary Chris Wormald
The FDA has responded to the announcement that Sir Chris Wormald has departed the role of Cabinet Secretary, with FDA General Secretary Dave Penman describing it as a “new low” for the government’s relationship with the civil service.
-
“Farcical” to wait until 2030 to make decision on restoration and renewal of parliament, says FDA
The FDA has responded to the latest publication of UK Parliament’s Restoration and Renewal Board, ‘Delivering restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster: the costed proposals.’
