Department

Eye on
the
horizon
As Transport Secretary, Douglas
Alexander wanted more than political
advice – he was also interested in
other perspectives and approaches
meant that I was able to get actively involved
in, for example, the policy development that
led to the Local Transport Act in 2008 and the
rail investment white paper.
Douglas did not simply want political
advice on civil servants’ recommendations,
although this was important. He was
also interested in other perspectives and
approaches. An important part of my role was
therefore to support Douglas’ engagement
with the broader transport community –
operators, representative groups and think
tanks – to be aware of different perspectives
and new ways of thinking.
This was certainly not because of any
distrust of the Civil Service. Rather it
would provide challenge to the Civil Service
allowing more rounded advice. Nobody has a
monopoly on good ideas. It is a sign of a good
It was very easy to fall
in to the trap of rarely leaving
the department
SpAd if they are open and responsive to policy
discussions outside the Civil Service.
Equally, it was very easy to fall in to the trap
of rarely leaving the department. The vast
majority of my week was dictated by Douglas’
diary. While this would of course involve
some visits, I felt it was crucial to make sure
I had my own perspective. I really valued the
experience that those working on the front line
provided and would try to bring any lessons
learnt to the department.
The civil servants I worked with at the DfT
appeared to recognise the necessary role that
SpAds play. When the relationship works
well it aids more efficient government. Any
‘power’ a SpAd has comes through their
perceived closeness to the Secretary of
March 2013 | THE HOUSE MAGAZINE | 49