DEAR DIARY

Former policing minister Nick Hurd’s warning to other politicians to “never underestimate” the importance of a diary manager proved a popular sentiment.

“I don’t think there is a more underappreciated role than diary secretary,” Sam Harrison said. “The skills shown by a good diary sec are easily as good as any other civil servant, and often better. It is a real shame it is not recognised as a profession. Well done Mr Hurd for saying this.”

Glen Freeman observed: “I think this applies also to a whole collection of roles in both the civil service and in the commercial sector.”

Heena M. shared her experience of working for the ex-minister: “I worked for Nick Hurd as his senior private secretary when he was at the Home Office. He used to have a canvas in his office that said ‘What is the point of this meeting?’