How Government works

I began my career as a civil servant in HM Treasury and then moved to Margaret Thatcher’s Policy Unit. My first serious published paper (1987) after I left Whitehall was an account for the Royal Institute of Public Administration of how the Downing Street Policy Unit worked.

The Role of the Prime Minister’s Policy Unit
December 1, 1987
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By David Willetts

The Prime Minister's Policy Unit, also known as the Number 10 Policy Unit, comprises a team of about eight advisers each responsible for briefing her in a major area of policy (ecluding such issues as foreign policy and security).

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My most recent engagement with Government was a review of the Business Case process commissioned by the then Secretary of State for DSIT in Autumn last year. It was presented to her and published earlier this year. It was accepted by the Department and I am pleased that the new Government also appears to be supportive. 

Review of Business Cases submitted to Government in January 2024
February 1, 2024
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By David Willetts

A year ago, the Prime Minister set up the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) with a mission to make the UK the most innovative economy in the world and cement our place as a science and technology superpower.

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Discover David Willetts' Work

Explore more of David's work and learn more about his professional career.

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