FDA General Secretary Dave Penman’s speech warned that “trust is in short supply” between civil servants and ministers, which is needed for “effective, and agile government”. Penman also celebrated the union’s successes and wins over the previous year and updated delegates on the FDA’s work on pay reform.
Caroline Wheeler, Political Editor of the i Paper, who took part in an ‘in conversation’ session with Penman, discussing topics including attacks on civil servants.
Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster used his speech to a number of announcements, including new AI training for civil servants to “seize the promise of technology” to improve public services and new senior-led delivery teams in every government department.
While these changes begin to address challenges identified by our members in the CPS, the union continues its call for increased CPS funding, in order to help tackle these crimes long-term.
An opportunity to join the fastest growing union in the UK.
This week, the FDA attended the 2026 TUC Congress in Brighton. FDA delegates spoke to and moved motions on a range of topics, including the review of the civil service, supporting effective management, accountability and safe contracting in the NHS, and the importance of an evidence-led approach to regulation.
