Priti Patel’s future as Home Secretary in doubt

Priti Patel’s future as the home secretary is being called into question this weekend after the most senior civil servant in her department resigned in a row over her alleged bullying of staff – and then announced he would sue the government for constructive dismissal.

In a tearful resignation statement, which rocked Whitehall, Sir Philip Rutnam confirmed widespread reports of a bitter feud with the home secretary. In a move described as “unprecedented” and “extraordinary” by two former heads of the home civil service, Sir Philip Rutnam accused Patel of orchestrating a “vicious” campaign against him and of “shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands – behaviour that created fear and that needed some bravery to call out.”

He also said he did not believe her claim that she was not involved in the campaign against him. The Home Office has refused to comment.

Via The Guardian / Sky News