Allegations Resurface Over Civil Service Contender
Claims from New York Tenure Re-examined
The leading candidate to become the next head of the UK civil service is facing renewed scrutiny over allegations tied to her time as a senior diplomat in New York nearly a decade ago. Documents reviewed by the BBC indicate that multiple staff members raised concerns about Dame Antonia Romeo’s conduct while she served as the UK’s consul general.
Dame Antonia, currently the top civil servant at the Home Office, is widely regarded in Whitehall as an effective operator with a strong record of delivery. However, critics argue that questions surrounding her past management style could complicate her prospects for the role of cabinet secretary, which would place her at the helm of the civil service.
Dispute Over Number of Complaints
The Cabinet Office has stated that three allegations—relating to expenses and alleged bullying—stemmed from a single complaint that was investigated and ultimately dismissed, with “no case to answer.” Officials have also said she was spoken to about her management style and that no similar issues have arisen in subsequent roles.
Former officials, however, told the BBC that describing the matter as a single complaint is “disingenuous.” According to one source, while the concerns were presented to London in a single dossier, they reflected multiple individual complaints.
Sir Matthew Rycroft, who was the UK Permanent Representative to the United Nations at the time, and Rupert McNeil, then head of government HR, have both publicly maintained that there was only one formal complaint.
Workplace Culture and Survey Findings
Contemporaneous documents describe allegations that Dame Antonia behaved in ways perceived as “unreasonable,” “demeaning,” and “degrading” toward staff. Some testimony suggested she prioritized personal visibility on social media over broader diplomatic objectives.
An annual staff survey during that period found that 47% of staff in the New York office reported experiencing bullying—reportedly the highest rate recorded within the Foreign Office at the time. The survey covered a 12-month span, including three months during Dame Antonia’s tenure.
Critics cited concerns about a “culture of fear and anxiety,” while also acknowledging her abilities. Some described her as “smart, dynamic and really talented,” but questioned her management approach and interpersonal style.
Investigation and Government Response
Former ambassador Sir Tim Hitchens was dispatched to examine the allegations, including claims related to bullying and financial conduct. The investigation reportedly concluded there was no case to answer regarding expenses, and the Cabinet Office maintains that all allegations were dismissed.
Government sources argue that revisiting the matter nearly ten years later is inappropriate. A spokesperson described Dame Antonia as “an outstanding leader with 25 years of public service,” emphasizing that she has since served in multiple permanent secretary roles without further complaints.
With the cabinet secretary role currently shared on an interim basis following the departure of Sir Chris Wormald, the selection process remains closely watched. The resurfaced claims have intensified debate over leadership standards at the highest levels of the civil service.
