Cabinet secretary

Definition

A cabinet secretary is a senior civil servant who heads a government department and is responsible for the implementation of government policy, providing advice to ministers, and managing the department's resources. This role is crucial as it serves as a bridge between the political and administrative arms of government, ensuring that decisions made by ministers are effectively executed within the framework of civil service principles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cabinet secretaries play a key role in coordinating the work of their respective departments, ensuring that policies are aligned with the government's overall strategy.
2. They provide impartial and professional advice to ministers, helping them to make informed decisions based on data and analysis.
3. Cabinet secretaries are responsible for managing departmental budgets and resources, ensuring efficient allocation and use of public funds.
4. The position is typically filled by an individual with extensive experience in public service or related fields, reflecting the need for high-level expertise in governmental operations.
5. Cabinet secretaries often represent their departments in parliamentary committees, providing insights into departmental functions and addressing questions from lawmakers.

Review Questions

• How does the role of a cabinet secretary differ from that of a minister in a government?
  • The cabinet secretary's role is primarily administrative and involves managing the implementation of government policies within their department. In contrast, a minister is an elected politician who sets policy direction and makes decisions on behalf of the government. While ministers focus on strategic governance and political considerations, cabinet secretaries provide impartial advice and ensure that operational aspects align with ministerial objectives.
• Discuss how cabinet secretaries contribute to the effectiveness of government policy implementation.
  • Cabinet secretaries contribute significantly to effective government policy implementation by translating political decisions into actionable plans within their departments. They ensure that all staff understand the objectives set by ministers and manage resources accordingly. By providing professional expertise and ensuring that bureaucratic processes are followed, they help to maintain continuity in governance despite changes in political leadership.
• Evaluate the impact of cabinet secretaries on the relationship between civil service and elected officials in government.
  • Cabinet secretaries play a critical role in shaping the relationship between civil service and elected officials by acting as trusted advisors and managers who uphold the principles of impartiality and professionalism. Their expertise helps maintain stability within departments during political transitions, while also ensuring that elected officials receive well-researched recommendations. This dynamic fosters a collaborative environment where policy decisions are informed by both political objectives and bureaucratic realities, ultimately strengthening governance.

Related terms

civil service: The permanent professional branches of government administration, excluding military and judicial branches, responsible for implementing government policies.

permanent secretary: A senior civil servant in charge of a government department, who oversees the daily operations and administration of the department.

government policy: A course of action adopted or proposed by a government, which is developed and implemented with the assistance of civil servants.