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The Mind of the Minister

Restoring trust between ministers and civil servants
Brief Description
The Mind of the Minister explores Britain's most important relationship, which has reached a breaking point. The relationship between civil servants and ministers is the most critical element for government to function well, and its health has reached an historic low. Centuries of carefully built trust... Read More
Format: Hardback
$6999
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Drawing on interviews with former government ministers and Permanent Secretaries - including Vince Cable, Caroline Flint, Rory Stewart, Philip Rutnam, Simon McDonald and Una O'Brien - The Mind of the Minister provides expert guidance and recommendations for how this vital relationship can improve.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Mind of the Minister explores Britain's most important relationship, which has reached a breaking point. The relationship between civil servants and ministers is the most critical element for government to function well, and its health has reached an historic low. Centuries of carefully built trust and mutual understanding have been undermined and strained in a few short years. This relationship now needs urgent attention.

Ministers, famously, begin the job with an hour's notice. There is an enormous amount to do, and they are in at the deep end, often knowing very little about the department but bringing energy, drive, and optimism for change. Over time, these can be drowned by reality, accountability, and crises. Eventually, they may be distracted by the prospects of promotion, demotion, or a changing political landscape.

How do civil servants and ministers adjust to these different chapters in a ministerial lifespan? What really happens in the corridors of power? What can be done if rule makers become rule breakers, without repercussions?

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781785909337

Publisher: Biteback Publishing

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 28 November 2024

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Biteback Publishing

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Weight: 250g

Pages: 320

About the Author

Tom Brown has worked with thousands of civil servants, officials and politicians, to help improve policy making and communications skills, since 2010. He has helped officials improve their working in UN agencies, EU institutions and governments in more than 40 different countries. He currently spends a lot of time working across Westminster and Whitehall, and the space in between them (metaphorically, not on Parliament Square).

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