Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces growing questions over leadership as his government operates without a chief of staff, Cabinet Secretary, or head of communications. The turmoil deepened when Sir Chris Wormald stepped down as head of the civil service just a year after his appointment.
Key Departures in Rapid Succession
Sir Chris Wormald’s exit followed confusion in Downing Street over who holds the Cabinet Secretary role. Officials announced the position now splits among three interim leaders: Cat Little from the Cabinet Office, James Bowler from the Treasury, and Dame Antonia Romeo from the Home Office. A permanent replacement arrives shortly.
This marks the third high-level loss in under a week. Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney resigned on Sunday, replaced by two temporary chiefs. Director of Communications Tim Allan departed the next day. The disarray ties to the ongoing Mandelson scandal, with Sir Chris overseeing related document releases last week.
Echoes of the ‘Clattering Train’
The phrase ‘who is in charge of the clattering train?’ draws from a poem by Edwin James Milliken, published in Punch in 1890 after a fatal train crash. Winston Churchill referenced it in a 1935 parliamentary debate, warning of Nazi threats amid government inaction. It now symbolizes out-of-control situations.
Who is in charge of the clattering train? / The axles creak and the couplings strain. / For the pace is hot, and the points are near, / And Sleep hath deadened the driver’s ear; / And the signals flash through the night in vain. / For Death is in charge of the clattering train!
Replacement Controversy and Criticisms
A dispute brews over the £220,000-a-year Cabinet Secretary role. Former diplomat Lord McDonald of Salford contacted No. 10, urging a proper process before appointing Dame Antonia Romeo, who faces past scrutiny over bullying and expenses allegations in New York—claims later dismissed.
Government sources defend her, stating all allegations stemmed from one grievance and were cleared. Sir Chris Wormald, with 35 years in Whitehall, receives a £250,000 payoff and holds a £2.5 million pension pot.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the move: “The Cabinet Secretary is the latest person Keir Starmer has thrown under the bus to save his own skin. To add insult to injury, he has signed off a £250,000 payment of what looks like ‘hush money’, courtesy of the taxpayer. Once again, the Prime Minister’s judgment is found wanting. For a man who has played holier than thou all his life, the latest series of blunders shows someone who is, at best, unsuited to the role or, at worst, morally bankrupt.”
Focus on Dress Code Over Policy?
Critics question Starmer’s priorities, noting his emphasis on attire at No. 10 meetings. He and Attorney General Lord Hermer attend in jackets over polo shirts. Senior officials receive pre-meeting notes enforcing ‘smart casual’ dress, raising eyebrows amid pressing policy challenges.
Sir Keir appointed Sir Chris in December 2024 despite concerns over his boldness for the role.
