The pinnacle of the civil service Simon Case has introduced he’ll resign on the finish of the 12 months on well being grounds.
The cupboard secretary, 45, mentioned in a letter to colleagues that he has been present process medical therapy for a neurological situation over the past 18 months.
Politics Reside: Badenoch defends saying she ‘grew to become working class’ whereas working at McDonald’s
He wrote: “Whilst the spirit remains willing, the body is not.
“It’s a disgrace that I really feel I’ve to spell this out, however my choice is solely to do with my well being and nothing to do with anything.”
Mr Case returned to work in January after two months off sick, although that is the primary time he has publicly confirmed particulars of his situation.
He was appointed cupboard secretary in September 2020 by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson, making him the UK’s most senior civil servant.
He has hit the headlines all through his function, most not too long ago concerning studies of tensions on the coronary heart of Quantity 10 between Mr Case and Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of workers Sue Grey.
Picture:
Simon Case giving proof on the Covid-19 inquiry.
Pic: PA
Mr Case additionally featured closely through the COVID inquiry, when messages revealed he was usually exasperated by the Johnson administration, describing the previous chief’s internal circle as “basically feral” and suggesting his spouse Carrie was “the real person in charge”.
In his letter to colleagues, Mr Case gave a nod to the turbulent years during which he has served within the prime job, saying: “It has been an honour to serve two sovereigns, four prime ministers and over 120 Cabinet ministers in this role.”
“There have been far more ups than downs along the way and by far the greatest highlight has been the privilege of working with so many remarkable public servants, across the length and breadth of our country, in our overseas posts and with counterparts from our close allies and partners around the world.”
Sir Keir Starmer will appoint Mr Case’s successor “following a full, open and transparent process which will be run by the First Civil Service Commission”, the resignation letter mentioned.
A job advert for the £200,000 a 12 months function is already stay.
Earlier than he was appointed cupboard secretary, Mr Case served because the Everlasting Secretary at Quantity 10.
He had beforehand labored as non-public secretary to the then Duke of Cambridge, the present Prince of Wales.
