Senior ministers and aides are expected to begin working from a new Government hub in the North of England, as part of a plan to decentralize operations. Those on leave have reportedly been informed that these changes would be in effect upon their return.
Dave Penman, general secretary of the FDA union representing senior civil servants, acknowledged the potential benefits of restructuring government operations but raised concerns about the practicalities of staff relocation. "Those considering a move out of London have the added concern that a return would be difficult given the disparity in house prices," he stated. Penman also emphasized that a key consideration for staff would be "whether it feels like a permanent reorganisation or something that could change quickly with a future government."
Minister Michael Gove has presented No. 10 North as more than a symbolic gesture, aiming to assure critics and civil servants whose careers may be affected. A think tank blueprint suggests a workforce of up to 300 staff within 18 months for the new hub. Dr. Simon Kaye, author of the Re:State report, noted that for No. 10 North to have lasting impact, it must establish a substantial presence and a clear sense of shared purpose that can endure beyond the current administration.
While many civil servants have broadly welcomed the concept of a northern hub, some question whether it will offer a significantly different experience compared to existing regional government offices, particularly as many ministers, political journalists, and business leaders remain based in London. Some officials in northern England have also expressed a desire for opportunities to apply for positions at No. 10 North before relocation packages for London-based staff were considered.
One anonymous official commented on the wealth of talent in the North, stating, "No. 10 North needs to make the best use of all talent and create opportunities for people to build careers close to the communities they serve." Henri Murison, chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, pointed out that the government has been relocating civil servants out of London for several years, including to the Darlington Economic Campus. He observed that while this has led to senior civil servants being based in these locations, ministerial presence has been less common.
