Cabinet secretaries ... and why Sir Humphrey always wins ...

What this episode covers

Jack speaks to Richard Wilson, Cabinet secretary under Tony Blair, about his years as Whitehall's top official, and his memories of crises including the 9/11 terror attacks. Suzanne Heywood, widow of the legendary Cabinet secretary Jeremy Heywood, reflects on her late husband's long career in government and considers the extent to which unelected officials can end up shaping government policy. The Institute for Government's Catherine Haddon explains the history behind the role of Cabinet secretary and the many different aspects to the job. And we trawl through hours of archive interviews with past Cabinet secretaries to explore how these powerful but mysterious figures at the heart of government guide the ship of state. You can find more background material used for this episode in our bookshop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

What is making the Scottish housing market so different to England right now?

May 26, 2026 ·23m

Can Boston College’s Transfers Deliver an UNPRECEDENTED Turnaround?

May 14, 2026 ·25m

Guest Mike Commodore

May 13, 2026 ·77m

Leading the Next Era of Lung Transplant Care

May 13, 2026 ·13m

Could Anthony Palano’s Transfer FIX Boston College’s Linebacker PROBLEM for Good?

May 13, 2026 ·27m

Das Drama um das Bacardi-Erbe

May 13, 2026 ·29m

Similar Podcasts

Two Recruiters: Zero Filter Two Recruiters At Two Recruiters: Zero Filter, we're on a mission to demystify the hiring process, share insider tips, and empower you to maneuver through the professional world with confidence. With more than 30 years of combined experience navigating the intricate web of job markets, talent acquisition, and career development, we're here to spill the tea on everything career related. But wait, there’s more! We will dive into many life topics that are interesting to us as well. Get ready for a rollercoaster of insights, stories, and no-holds-barred advice!Join us for conversations that matter – where work, life, and authenticity collide in the most unexpected and rewarding ways. The Johnny Vedmore Show TNT News Johnny Vedmore follows the tentacles of the new world beast. Especially during an election year, it’s vital we know who are the allies and associate of those who officially represent us.The show will look at the associations of those in the news, from Palestine to Ukraine, from Westminster to the White House, marrying deep research with current affairs.It will analyse the current news with deep context, informing the viewers of the little known allegiances of those who seek power and influence over our lives.The guests will help define and explain the many tentacles of the Establishment Octopus. Locked On Boston College - Daily Podcast On Boston College Eagles Football & Basketball AJ Black, Locked On Podcast Network Locked On Boston College podcast is the daily podcast that keeps you ahead of the games and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Boston College Eagles. Hosted by AJ Black, the editor and publisher for Eagle Insider at 24/7 Sports, the Locked On Boston College podcast provides your daily Eagles fix with recruiting news, expert opinions, film reviews, interviews, recaps, local analysis, and coverage of all things Boston College, all through the lens of Black’s decade of experience. From the electric atmosphere of Conte Forum to the gridiron battles at Alumni Stadium, and everywhere in between, the Locked On Boston College podcast takes you beyond the headlines for the inside scoops from the biggest stories inside the Eagles locker room and the ACC. Locked On Boston College podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Mortgage Insider Barclays The evolving role of the mortgage broker is becoming increasingly complex. The performance and potential of the housing market is an ever-changing landscape, but help is here.The award-winning Mortgage Insider Podcast – brought to you by Barclays – is back and better than ever. Renowned TV presenter and property expert Phil Spencer guides you through the trials and tribulations of the housing world.Phil, along with industry-leading guests from the world of economics, financial services, and of course housing, takes you beyond the headlines to help you navigate the world of mortgage markets.This is an in-depth plunge into the world of mortgages, so listen and follow to find out moreabout the current mortgage market, how rates are set, the insider take on housing, changes to buy-to-let, marathon mortgages and helping clients plan for a worst-case scenario. The Mortgage Insider Podcast – you can’t afford to miss it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Westminster Insider?

This episode is 39 minutes long.

When was this Westminster Insider episode published?

This episode was published on March 4, 2021.

What is this episode about?

Jack speaks to Richard Wilson, Cabinet secretary under Tony Blair, about his years as Whitehall's top official, and his memories of crises including the 9/11 terror attacks. Suzanne Heywood, widow of the legendary Cabinet secretary Jeremy Heywood,...

Can I download this Westminster Insider episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.