Debate: Trust and accountability—consequences for the quality of policy advice

Civil servants in the UK have no legal personality (Armstrong, Citation1985; Richards & Smith, Citation2016). Ministers do, however, and that means that every decision taken, or action performed by the civil service, is done for or on behalf of the relevant secretary of state. Nevertheless, the business of governing is massive, and it is unreasonable to expect ministers to personally take every decision necessary for the effective functioning of government (Lodge, Citation2014; Rhodes, Citation2013). That is where the civil service should add value: by conducting relevant analysis in support of ministerial decision making delivered through the provision of advice (Lodge et al., Citation2013). In some cases, ministers may even delegate certain decisions down to civil servants, particularly those that are process-heavy, like those connected with individual claims for benefit, or the release of prisoners on license. While ministers may rely upon advice in making a decision, or delegate certain matters in order not to overburden themselves, they cannot delegate accountability for decisions; that stays with the minister, save in certain specified circumstances prescribed by law (Lodge, Citation2014). Trust is therefore important if the relationship between ministers and officials is to function effectively.