Critics argue that Britain’s traditional, hierarchical civil service is stuck in slow motion, unfit for rapid challenges. Defenders counter that its neutrality and expertise are our best defence against political churn. Time to decide: evolution or revolution?
Debate motion: “This House believes the civil service needs root and branch rethinking.”
Advocates contend that the Westminster model, with its hierarchical grade system and siloed departments, is too slow and risk-averse to tackle complex modern challenges. Defenders of the status quo argue that civil service neutrality and continuity are vital bulwarks against political interference and that incremental improvements preserve institutional memory and stability. This debate invites us to consider whether radical transformation or careful evolution better serves democratic governance.
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