The Civil Service is led through the constitutional relationship between ministers and a permanent, impartial Civil Service.
Leadership
The Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service provides professional leadership at the centre of government. Permanent Secretaries lead departments and carry Accounting Officer responsibilities where appointed.
Cabinet Office stewardship
Cabinet Office maintains common Civil Service values, conduct, management, recruitment, profession, learning, talent and capability arrangements.
Departmental accountability
Departments manage their own officials within the common framework. Civil Service stewardship does not give political office holders control over individual officials outside lawful ministerial and management arrangements.