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Here's a few hints and tips from conversations @instituteforgov has had with ministers from different govts on how to handle crises, in case Gavin Williamson has some spare time
First up - best advice is to try to prevent crises from escalating... may be a bit late for that now
First up - best advice is to try to prevent crises from escalating... may be a bit late for that now
2 - if you can't stop it happening, be ready for when it hits the front pages... again, a bit late for that unfortunately...
3 - make use of civil service expertise - chances are there are officials who have seen similar issues in the past who can help
3 - make use of civil service expertise - chances are there are officials who have seen similar issues in the past who can help
4 - establish the facts - and a plan. Ministers can't know everything, but they can ask the important questions of others, and make sure everyone is working towards the same objective(s)
And most importantly - take responsibility. Ministers are ultimately accountable for what their departments do, and as Lord (George) Young told us, "I think if you are secretary of state or chief whip, you
do it, you take it on the chin, you do not get somebody
else to do it"
do it, you take it on the chin, you do not get somebody
else to do it"
You - and the secretary of state for education - can read more of their tips here: https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/publications/ministers-reflect-how-handle-crisis
