Treasury urged to show 'humility'

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A Whitehall review of the Treasury has said it needs more "passion and pace" and is seen as not having enough "humility" in its dealings with others.

The assessment was made in a report commissioned by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell who is scrutinising the performance of all departments.

The Treasury is rated "strong" in four out of ten areas of its work.

But it is urged to "work with other government departments" to try to improve performance in other areas.

"The department (Her Majesty's Treasury) needs to take early steps to tackle what is perceived by many to be a pressing need for greater inclusiveness and humility in its dealings with others," it says.

Staff 'less positive'

It claims the Treasury (HMT) needs to "construct a more open and consultative environment that listens and responds to stakeholder concerns".

"HMT should consider a more structured and regular assessment of its reputation amongst its principal stakeholders," it adds.

"HMT should work with other departments to refresh its approach to how it monitors public spending whilst seeking jointly to improve performance."

The department is not driving change with sufficient passion and pace Capability Review

The report praises the Treasury for its "high-calibre, talented and motivated" staff.

But it says its board and executive management group "have underestimated the drive, stamina and commitment needed to change the culture, behaviours and diversity of the department and to secure the skills needed for the future".

The report says that the Treasury's senior civil servants believe change in the department is well managed, in "sharp contrast to the views of staff, who are significantly less positive".

The report, one of a number of capability reviews of Whitehall departments, was conducted by civil servants, public sector chiefs and external advisors over the past 18 months.

The senior civil servant at the Treasury welcomed the review's recognition that "much is excellent in the department".