With the end of 2016 fast approaching, we asked the UK's top officials to look back at the year, outline their goals for 2017 – and shed some light on their festive favourites. Professor Dame Sally Davies, chief medical officer, takes part in our annual perm secs round-up...
What was your highlight of 2016?
In September the United Nations General Assembly issued a Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance, which is an incredible global achievement that requires civil society, industry, and governments from around the world to work together to tackle an incredible health threat. Without the joint effort across government from DH, the Treasury, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Cabinet Office, the Department for International Development, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and others, this would not have happened. For the UK, this was health diplomacy at its best. The challenge is now to act on this declaration and galvanise real-world action. It is no exaggeration to say that if this action is not taken, then the rise of drug-resistant infections could be the end of modern medicine as we know it.
What will be the biggest challenge of 2017 – and how are you preparing to meet it?
As chief medical officer, I am closely engaged with the global health security agenda and in particular the World Health Organisation, where I represent the UK. The WHO is entering a critical phase next year, with the election of a new director-general. This is a crucial role for building on the strengths of the WHO and making it fit for purpose in the 21st century. So there is a challenge for the global health community in electing the right person, and an opportunity for that person to drive forward Sustainable Development Goals and global health security internationally. I hope that the UK candidate in this election process, Dr David Nabarro, will become the next director-general as I believe he is the best person for this important job. Meanwhile, we must continue the global momentum we have created through the UNGA Declaration on AMR.
What was the best Christmas present that you’ve ever given or received?
Last year my daughters ousted me from the kitchen on Christmas Day to cook the big dinner for the family. This was the first time I can remember where I had a properly relaxing Christmas so I was very grateful for the peace and quiet – as well as the delicious food!
More: Perm secs round-up 2016 – Britain's top civil servants review the year and look ahead to 2017