Dame Antonia Romeo appointed cabinet secretary

The prime minister has appointed Dame Antonia Romeo as cabinet secretary and head of the civil service.

She will become the first female to hold the role.

The appointment was overseen by the independent First Civil Service Commissioner.

Dame Antonia is currently Permanent Secretary of the Home Office and is the longest-serving permanent secretary in government. She will begin the new role with immediate effect.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "I am delighted to appoint Dame Antonia Romeo as the new Cabinet Secretary. She is an outstanding public servant, with a 25‑year record of delivering for the British people.

"Since becoming Prime Minister, I’ve been impressed by her professionalism and determination to get things done. Families across the country are still feeling the squeeze, and this government is focused on easing the cost of living, strengthening public services and restoring pride in our communities. It is essential we have a Cabinet Secretary who can support the government to make this happen.

"Antonia has shown she is the right person to drive the government to reform and I look forward to working with her to deliver this period of national renewal."

Dame Antonia Romeo said: "It is a huge privilege to be asked to serve as Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service.

"The Civil Service is a great and remarkable institution, which I love. We should be known for delivery, efficiency and innovation, working to implement the Government’s agenda and meet the challenges the country faces.

"I look forward to working with all colleagues across the Civil Service to do this, in support of the Prime Minister and the Government."