Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary role of civil servants in relation to the government?
What is the primary role of civil servants in relation to the government?
Civil servants provide advice, assist in decision-making, and manage the delivery of services for the government.
List the four core values outlined in the Civil Service Code.
List the four core values outlined in the Civil Service Code.
Integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality.
How many people are employed in the civil service, including overseas positions?
How many people are employed in the civil service, including overseas positions?
Approximately 420,000 people.
Why is impartiality important for civil servants?
Why is impartiality important for civil servants?
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What distinguishes senior civil servants from regular civil servants?
What distinguishes senior civil servants from regular civil servants?
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What does the obligation of integrity require from civil servants?
What does the obligation of integrity require from civil servants?
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When was the Civil Service Code first introduced?
When was the Civil Service Code first introduced?
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What types of roles might civil servants occupy?
What types of roles might civil servants occupy?
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Study Notes
Civil Service Overview
- The Civil Service handles the practical and administrative work of government
- Managed by the Prime Minister
- Works with the government to direct policies
- Follows a strict code of conduct
- Employs 420,000 people nationally and internationally
- Civil servants advise ministers, deliver public services (e.g., benefits, pensions, employment services, prisons, driving licences).
- Tasks range widely, from veterinarian to web developer
Civil Service Impartiality and Role
- The Civil Service has no separate constitutional responsibility; it supports the elected government
- Civil servants advise on policy formation and assist in implementing government decisions
- Their primary duty is to the Minister of the Crown
- Impartiality is crucial; they must not show political bias
- This necessitates acting purely based on the merits of a case, regardless of political persuasion
Civil Service Code
- The Civil Service Code outlines standards and is part of the terms of employment
- The code was introduced in 1996 and has been updated since
- Four core values: integrity (serving the public over personal interests), honesty (truthfulness and openness), objectivity (evidence-based advice & decisions), impartiality (acting according to case merits)
Senior Civil Servants
- Approximately 4,000 senior civil servants work in government departments
- Their roles are permanent and not subject to election outcomes
- Expertise in specific areas, advising ministers, especially new ones
- Prepare policies, legislation, answer parliamentary questions, brief ministers, manage policies, and consult with different groups
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Description
This quiz covers the essential aspects of the Civil Service, including its role, impartiality, and the code of conduct. It outlines how the Civil Service operates within the government framework and its responsibilities towards public service. Test your knowledge on the structure and functioning of this vital government sector.
