Speaking in an interview with CSW, Rogers said the standard of knowledge of Parliament in the civil service has declined to a level “much lower” than it was 40 years ago, when he first joined the Commons.
This shortcoming, he said, is “hampering the civil service” in its work to help governments “achieve their political aims”. Rogers argued that “taking training seriously” would help, and said he’s willing to assist with this – but the drive to improve must originate with civil servants: “You need the determination that you are going to raise your game first”.
Too often, Rogers said, legislation is drafted “on the hoof”. He added that “a great deal more could be done to ensure legislation is better prepared”: draft bills can be used, for example, to gather opinions before introducing new laws to Parliament.
Most draft bills are examined by select committees in the Commons or Lords, or by a joint committee of both Houses, opening up the opportunity to “take evidence from the people who understand the subject matter”, he said.
The Cabinet Office commented that it recognises the “importance of civil servants, especially those advising ministers, having sound, working knowledge of the functions and role of Parliament”.
In his role as clerk of the House, Rogers also works as chief executive of the House Service – meaning that he is responsible for a budget of £220m, which has to be trimmed by 17% over the four years to 2014-15.
To this end, Rogers said, he has encouraged select committees to go paperless and made the estate available for film companies.
The House is also currently embarking on a ‘Security Arrangements Renewal Programme’, reviewing the estate’s security contract – currently held by the Metropolitan Police. The contract, which is paid out of the Commons’ and Lords’ budgets, is coming to an end in 2015, and a spokesperson for the Commons said the review is exploring “all options” – including outsourcing to private firms.
Also see our full interview with Rogers