Ministers have been told to increase pressure on UK civil servants to return to their desks, as the revolution in Whitehall’s post-Covid working patterns in the era of flexible working has become clear.
Jacob Rees-Mogg, Cabinet Office minister responsible for government efficiency, has written to cabinet members pointing out that many departments have empty desks, despite repeated requests that they should fully use available office space.
Boris Johnson has also repeatedly called on civil servants to set an example by returning to the office — a move seen as important for revitalising city centres and improving collaboration between staff.