The Sue Gray Report: Whistleblowing at the Heart of Government

The long-awaited Sue Gray report paints a stark picture of the culture within Downing Street. Shocking revelations came to light about the extent of ministers, officials, and high-up members of civil service flagrant disregard for COVID-19 rules and precautions. But even more worryingly, questions have been raised about the silence which followed in the wake of these breaches. Ms Gray stated that “some staff wanted to raise concerns about behaviours they witnessed at work but at times felt unable to do so.” This is incredibly troubling news to come out of the heart of government. The report exposed that not only did employees not have the appropriate mechanisms to report on such malfeasance but also that they were concerned about reporting these problems within the set chain of command. If the principles of accountability, transparency and diligence cannot be upheld in the central arena of governance, what hope is there for the rest of the country?

Whilst some steps have been taken to introduce a more efficient complaints system within No. 10, the fact remains that workers will always fear for their career and wellbeing if such procedures are tied to the same structures as those which govern their work life. There must be an independent, receptive channel through which staff can report on conduct that they rightly see as beyond the pale of appropriate behaviour. In other words, what is required is an Office of the Whistleblower. This body, by focusing solely on concerns raised by workers and making its primary mission to protect those who come forward, can and will stand apart from the circles of interest that stifle speaking up in Downing Street. Yet above all else, it will signal to individuals who work in any sector, including those who might report directly to ministers and the cabinet, that their resolve to do the right thing and report on wrongdoing is valued and should be rewarded. At WhistleblowersUK, we believe that measures such as the Office of the Whistleblower, as well as specialist tribunals, criminal sanctions, and compensatory measures have another role above their assigned function. They also signal to workers and the public that truth and integrity matter and should be upheld regardless of who might be incriminated as a result. 

- Alfie Rowe, WhistleblowersUK Team