Morgan McSweeney calls for rethink of cabinet ministers’ ‘quasi-judicial’ powers
Summary
Morgan McSweeney urged the government to review rules that give cabinet ministers authority over decisions with legal or quasi-judicial processes. He said the rules and conventions can limit cabinet discussion and the prime minister’s ability to deliver the government’s programme, and proposed writing down and reducing the prime minister’s powers and constraints.Key Facts
- McSweeney gave evidence to the House of Lords Constitution Committee.
- He said quasi-judicial processes could prevent broader cabinet discussion and input from the prime minister.
- The energy secretary has had authority over decisions on proposed oil and gas fields, including Rosebank and Jackdaw.
- Steve Reed, as housing and local government secretary, had authority to decide whether to approve a proposed Chinese embassy in east London.
- McSweeney cited advice that Keir Starmer should not send cabinet ministers letters setting priorities and requesting progress updates because of convention.
- He said rules that prevent abuse of power should remain, while other rules should be reviewed for their cumulative effect.
- McSweeney left his role as Starmer’s chief of staff in February after his connection to the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador drew scrutiny.
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