Sam Lister, the Director General of No. 10 North, the government's new outpost in Manchester, resides in a £2.2 million townhouse in London's Islington and commutes to the northern city weekly, according to reports.
Lister, a 52-year-old civil servant with prior experience in health, business, and culture departments, is responsible for implementing Prime Minister Andy Burnham's pledge to decentralize government functions and reduce London-centric operations. Despite his role, he has not yet relocated to Manchester and reportedly works from the Cabinet Office in London on Mondays before traveling north on Tuesdays.
His travel to Manchester involves taking the 6:29 a.m. Avanti train from London Euston, with return tickets costing over £220. He is reported to stay at the Manchester Deansgate Hotel, a 24-story building featuring amenities like an indoor pool, spa, and sauna, and patronizes the hotel's Cloud 23 bar. On Fridays, he returns to London.
These weekly round trips, including meals, are estimated to cost taxpayers approximately £800 per week. Downing Street sources indicated that Lister is committed to his role and is considering his family's living arrangements, stating that he has only been in the position for three weeks. The civil service policy for travel and accommodation expenses is reportedly being followed.
No. 10 North, housed in Heron House near Manchester Piccadilly, is intended to be a significant hub with plans to employ up to 300 staff. Critics, however, have labeled the initiative a 'gimmick' and an unnecessary expense, with some politicians arguing it serves as an excuse for officials to work remotely.
Other officials, including Will Davis, Director of Devolution and Local Growth at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Harriet Gordon, a deputy director at the Treasury, were also seen traveling on the same train. These officials reportedly returned to London on Thursday evenings.
Downing Street has stated that No. 10 North is crucial for spreading growth and opportunity across the UK and bringing government closer to communities. The initial team comprises staff from various regions, including the North West, Yorkshire, and London.