Operational Delivery

Transport secretary Chris Grayling insists services are improving and some recommendations are already being implemented

Lidington pledges to continue reform programme, but Labour criticise lack of legislation the Queen’s Speech

Queen’s Birthday Honours list also includes knighthood for UN under-secretary general Stephen O’Brien

Small increase in Whitehall headcount reported by ONS, but employment remains almost 150,000 posts below peak set before spending cuts

New minister responsible for civil service has praise for officials but also complains about 'ropey' delivery 

MPs and centre users back call to save one of 78 threatened offices

Senior civil service has biggest range of average salaries of any grade across Whitehall, with Treasury chiefs paid least

Commission calls on civil service to scrutinise EU regulations relating to public services to plan reforms ahead of exit

Conservationists voice fears over proposals to remodel listed city office block

Veteran negotiator Jonathan Powell lauds civil service’s post-referendum progress but cautions on remaining skills gaps

The Institute for Government says budget projections must not provide “cover for misleading intentions”

New combined authority chiefs could improve services and boost local economies if offered new menu of powers, says think tank