Keir Starmer's recent appointment of Antonia Romeo as the head of the civil service has been met with significant criticism from former colleagues who have alleged that she displayed bullying behavior during her previous role as a diplomat in New York. These former colleagues have expressed their dismay that Starmer would choose to overlook these complaints, some of which were formally lodged in 2017 and initially substantiated by a senior diplomat during an investigation.

The resurfacing of these complaints has raised questions about the vetting process employed by the Prime Minister’s office, especially after Simon McDonald, former lead civil servant at the Foreign Office, called for greater due diligence regarding Romeo's suitability for the position. Despite these concerns, Starmer proceeded with the appointment, suggesting a potential lapse in judgment amid mounting criticism from within the civil service community. This decision not only reflects on Romeo’s controversial past but also raises implications for the future conduct and morale within the civil service under her leadership.

The appointment is also being seen as a litmus test for Starmer's leadership style and decision-making processes, especially in regard to addressing issues of workplace culture and accountability. While the Prime Minister may believe that Romeo's qualifications outweigh the former complaints, the backlash illustrates the precarious balance between political decisions and the expectations of public servitude. As the new cabinet secretary, the pressure on Romeo to navigate these accusations and maintain the integrity of the civil service will be immense, potentially affecting her effectiveness in the role and the broader governmental landscape in the UK.