Coffee House Shots Is Antonia Romeo what the civil service needs?
Feb 12, 2026
Tim Shipman, Political Editor at The Spectator, gives sharp analysis of senior civil service appointments and Whitehall dynamics. He discusses Antonia Romeo’s rise, past vetting and controversies, her energetic, disruptive style, and her strong ministerial relationships. The conversation centers on whether she has the drive and presence to push through change at the top of the civil service.
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Romeo As A Change Agent
- Antonia Romeo is a high-flyer and long-time contender for Cabinet Secretary who was promoted to the Home Office after missing out previously.
- Tim Shipman argues she is dynamic and the opposite of Chris Wormald, implying she could drive change through Whitehall.
Controversy And A Disruptive Style
- Romeo cleared bullying allegations but attracted strong briefing and controversy in the past.
- Shipman warns her style is disruptive and will be a visible contrast to Chris Wormald's passivity.
New York Expenses And Parties
- While posted in New York she hosted high-profile cultural events and faced criticism over lavish spending and wallpaper.
- An inquiry cleared her, but Shipman notes she was heavily briefed against at the time.