News from the FDA
Leaks are not the answer in rows with special advisers,the FDA (the union for senior public sector managers), said today. JonathanBaume, FDA general secretary, commenting on the latest row about specialadviser Jo Moore, said:
"Government ministers mustbe able to trust the civil service. This week's leak has damaged the civilservice, damaged the Department of Transport and damaged the Government.
If civil servants believe thata special adviser or a minister is behaving inappropriately then properprocedures should be followed, including raising the issue with the FDA leaking is not the answer.
This incident has reinforcedthe FDA's case for a Civil Service Act to give legal force to the codes ofconduct for civil servants and special advisers, and set in law therelationships between ministers, advisers and civil servants".
Ends
Notesfor Editors
1. TheFDA is the trade union and professional body representing the UKs 11,000senior civil and public servants. Our members include policy advisors, seniormanagers, tax inspectors, economists, statisticians, accountants, governmentlawyers, crown prosecutors and NHS managers
2. Forfurther information contact:
Jonathan Baume (general secretary) on 020-7343-1111 or07976-951191 (mobile)
Simon Moore (chief press officer) on 020-7343-1111 or 07967 484441 (mobile)