Fighting for quality news media in the digital age.

  1. News
March 18, 2015updated 19 Mar 2015 2:21pm

New Government rules mean civil servants need ministerial approval before speaking to media

By William Turvill

Minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude (pictured, Reuters) has been condemned over a rule change meaning civil servants need permission from a minister to speak to the media.

A change inserted into the Civil Service Management Code says: “All contacts with the media should be authorised in advance by the relevant Minister unless a specific delegation or dispensation has been agreed which may be for blocks of posts or areas of activities.

"The Civil Service Code applies to all such contacts. Civil Servants must at all times observe discretion and express comment with moderation, avoiding personal attacks.”

You've reached your limit of free articles

Please register now to continue reading

Already registered? Log in here
Websites in our network