The buck stops with civil servants too

The Callinan letter shows how politicians rely on bureaucrats

Principle of shielding officials from political fallout is outdated, writes Pat Rabbitte Picture: Getty

Sir Humphrey’s usual languid disposition was in danger of giving way to impatience. What in heaven’s name did his younger colleague imagine was the purpose of a minister? A minister, Sir Humphrey explained, should confine himself to three functions:

1. He is an advocate. He makes the department’s actions seem plausible to Parliament and the public.

2. He is Our Man in Westminster, steering our legislation through Parliament.

3. He is our breadwinner. ...