Morgan McSweeney Urges Reform of Cabinet Ministerial Powers
Morgan McSweeney called for the codification of prime ministerial powers and a reduction in quasi-judicial ministerial authority to accelerate government delivery.
Former chief of staff to the prime minister Morgan McSweeney called for a comprehensive reform of the quasi-judicial powers granted to cabinet ministers during testimony before the House of Lords constitution committee. McSweeney argued that these specific authorities obstruct broader cabinet discussions and prevent the prime minister from contributing to issues of national importance.
To illustrate the problem, McSweeney cited the energy secretary's authority over oil and gas fields and the housing secretary's power regarding a proposed Chinese super-embassy in London. He described the current system as a thicket of rules and conventions that hinder the government's ability to operate quickly and fulfill its electoral mandate.
McSweeney urged the government to codify the powers of the prime minister and justify the remaining rules. He stated that while rules preventing the abuse of power should be kept, the cumulative effect of existing constraints must be evaluated to ensure the government can function effectively.
