Which statement best describes the Civil Service?

Which statement best describes the Civil Service?

• A. It has two roles: implement the policies of government departments and advise department ministers.
• B. It debates policy proposals in parliament.
• C. It presides over the judiciary.
• D. It drafts new laws.

Answer: (C)

The Civil Service is the permanent, professional body that supports government by turning ministers’ policies into reality and by providing impartial policy advice. Its two main roles are implementing government policies through the various departments and agencies, and supplying ministers with non-partisan, expert guidance to inform decision-making. It does not debate policy proposals in Parliament—that function belongs to elected MPs and parliamentary committees. It also does not preside over the judiciary, which is a separate branch of government. While civil servants may prepare policy papers and draft legislative text for ministers, the actual drafting of laws is handled within the legislative process by Parliament with the government. So the best description highlights its dual role of implementing policies and advising ministers.

The Civil Service is the permanent, professional body that supports government by turning ministers’ policies into reality and by providing impartial policy advice. Its two main roles are implementing government policies through the various departments and agencies, and supplying ministers with non-partisan, expert guidance to inform decision-making. It does not debate policy proposals in Parliament—that function belongs to elected MPs and parliamentary committees. It also does not preside over the judiciary, which is a separate branch of government. While civil servants may prepare policy papers and draft legislative text for ministers, the actual drafting of laws is handled within the legislative process by Parliament with the government. So the best description highlights its dual role of implementing policies and advising ministers.