In a dramatic shake-up at the highest levels of British government, Dame Antonia Romeo is being lined up to become the nation's first female Cabinet Secretary. This controversial mandarin, who has been nicknamed the 'Queen of Woke' for her progressive stances, is expected to replace Sir Chris Wormald in what appears to be another last-ditch effort by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to salvage his struggling premiership.
Turmoil at the Top of Whitehall
Sir Chris Wormald, who secured the top civil service position just over a year ago, is now set to be pushed out by the Prime Minister for failing to deliver on promised reforms. This leadership change comes amid significant upheaval in Downing Street, where National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell remains in his post despite being widely blamed for many of Sir Keir's least popular policies, including the controversial Chagos Islands surrender deal and perceived kowtowing to China.
Costly Transitions and Taxpayer Concerns
The appointment will trigger a substantial financial payout estimated at £250,000 for Sir Chris, who already has a taxpayer-funded pension worth £2.5 million awaiting him upon retirement. Remarkably, Sir Chris is poised to become the shortest-serving Cabinet Secretary in the role's century-long history.
John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, expressed serious concerns about the situation: 'Chopping and changing at the top of the Civil Service will do no good for taxpayers unless they bring in someone who really cares about results. Too many senior mandarins care more about what's best for the Civil Service, not what's best for the country.'
The 'Queen of Woke' Profile
Currently serving as Permanent Secretary at the Home Office, the 51-year-old Dame Antonia is believed to have impressed Sir Keir with her handling of the small boats crisis. The two share a common bond as diehard Arsenal football fans, which may have further strengthened their professional relationship.
Progressive Credentials and Controversies
Dame Antonia has earned her 'Queen of Woke' moniker through her vocal advocacy for progressive causes. She previously served as the 'civil service gender inclusion champion' and has publicly stated that diversity and inclusion are 'absolutely crucial' for Whitehall's effectiveness. In one notable instance, she expressed delight that one of her former departments received high ratings from Stonewall 'because of our effort to become more inclusive for trans staff.'
Her career has not been without controversy. A decade ago, while serving as Her Majesty's consul general in New York, she raised eyebrows by using her official residence to host glamorous parties for high-profile figures including legendary Vogue editor Anna Wintour. She also faced criticism for posting photos of herself with celebrities on social media during her diplomatic posting.
Previous Investigations and Current Speculation
During her tenure in the United States, Dame Antonia was accused of 'terrorising' staff members who had criticised her lavish spending habits. The Mail on Sunday reported that she was investigated for bullying by the Cabinet Office after concerns were raised about the cost of her flights back to the UK and extravagances such as sending flowers to high-profile friends. She was later cleared of these allegations.
The Government has declined to comment on what it describes as 'speculation' about the rumoured job change, leaving Whitehall insiders and political observers to ponder the implications of this potential appointment during a period of significant instability at the heart of British governance.
