Getting on with Brexit

SIR – If Whitehall is in chaos, as you report (April 3), it’s not due to a lack of preparation, commitment or skill among civil servants.

When the Brexit result was announced, the FDA, as the union that represents senior managers and professionals in the Civil Service, was clear that the Civil Service could deliver the best possible outcome but would require clear political direction plus the capacity to deliver.

After a slow start, resources have now been forthcoming, and the Civil Service has been pooling talent in a way unimaginable only a few years ago.

There is a lack of understanding of turnover figures in the Department for Exiting the European Union; they are higher as staff have been brought in on secondment for short periods, with fast-stream staff given short-term placements to manage projects. The department is committed to developing its talent, so it is no surprise that this has resulted in a number of people gaining promotion.

Much has been made of the lack of trade negotiators working in the Department of International Trade, but at this point policy experts are required. Negotiations will come later. The department has increased its trade policy group to about 500 staff – a big step up from pre-brexit levels.

The Government needs to be held to account for its political failings, but the Civil Service has performed remarkable feats in the most extraordinary circumstances. Victoria Taylor

National Officer, FDA