With the end of 2015 in sight, we asked Whitehall's top officials to review the year, set out their priorities for 2016 – and shed some light on their festive plans. Leslie Evans, permanent secretary of the Scottish Government, takes part in our biggest-ever perm secs' round-up series...
How did you tackle the biggest challenges facing your organisation in 2015?
Following the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, we have been engaging with colleagues right across the UK to implement the recommendations of the Smith Commission. That has meant building and deepening relationships with UK civil service colleagues, developing expertise in new areas of policy and operation, and, mostly importantly, considering how the Scottish Government might deploy the new powers to best effect for the people of Scotland.
At the same time, we’ve been working with people and organisations across Scotland to deliver an ambitious Programme for Government, with key priorities of strengthening the economy through inclusive growth, reform of public services, and devolving more power to communities.
On a more personal level, I became permanent secretary in July, and have learnt a great deal as I adjust to my new position, supporting the First Minister, also in her first year. She has set us the challenge of being the most open and accessible government that Scotland has ever known. As part of my response we have almost completed a process of asking all Scottish Government staff to describe the organisation they think we need (and want to be) by 2020.
What are your department’s top priorities for the year ahead?
We’re continuing to prepare for new powers expected to move to the Scottish Parliament as part of the Scotland Bill. The Scottish Government has a challenging legislative programme to complete ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections in May 2016 – including greater support for Scotland’s carers, more security for people living in our private rented sector, and stronger measures to tackle domestic abuse. And we are already in touch with opposition parties as we prepare for the Scottish parliamentary election in May 2016.
What film do you hope to watch over the Christmas period?
I always take time to watch the 1951 version of Scrooge, with Alastair Sim. A real Christmas treat – accompanied by a glass of sherry of course.
Perm secs round-up 2015: Whitehall's top civil servants review the year – and look ahead to 2016