UK Civil Service Tightens Network Event Rules

The Cabinet Office has issued guidance requiring Civil Service staff network events to be signed off by senior managers and to take place outside working hours unless they directly benefit the organisation or have explicit line‑manager permission. The rules reiterate that networks must remain impartial, must not seek to influence government policy, and that breaches could lead to disciplinary action or suspension. The move follows media criticism of a series of reportedly “inappropriate” events across Whitehall, from an HMRC “Guilt of Being British” seminar to planned attendance at a vegetarian/vegan conference and other sessions such as knitting, menopause yoga and guided meditation. Ministers, including Cabinet Office minister Nick Thomas‑Symonds, say the vast majority of more than 20 cross‑government networks support underrepresented staff and operate within the rules, but senior accountability is needed to prevent misuse. Some networks previously suspended over alleged attempts to influence policy, such as the Civil Service Muslim Network, later resumed activity after being given senior sponsors.