The appointment follows allegations she was previously spoken to about her management style

Gisela Stuart, the former Labour MP who is now a peer and first civil service commissioner (see 10.15am), issued this statement about the appointment of Antonia Romeo as cabinet secretary.

I approved the comprehensive due diligence process and agreed the conclusions drawn, to form the basis for the prime minister to make an appointment decision.

Dame Antonia Romeo has an excellent track record in leadership positions across the civil service, including three permanent secretary roles in some of the most complex operational departments in government.

Following the departure of Sir Chris Wormald as cabinet secretary, the prime minister and the first civil service commissioner agreed a process to appoint a new cabinet secretary …

Dame Antonia was found to be a suitable candidate for the role during the previous recruitment process in 2024. Under the direction of the first civil service commissioner, consideration has been given to her performance at the Ministry of Justice and Home Office since the previous recruitment process took place.