Boris Johnson is ‘extremely unlikely’ to sack Home Secretary Priti Patel when the bullying probe into the Prime Minister’s key ally wraps up this week
- Sources say whatever the findings of the probe, Patel is unlikely to be sacked
- The results of the probe are due to be passed to the Prime Minister’s Independent Adviser on Ministers’ Interests Sir Alex Allan within days
- The final say rests with the Prime Minister who can overrule Sir Alex
Boris Johnson is ‘extremely unlikely’ to sack Home Secretary Priti Patel when the findings of a probe into bullying allegations are published this week, Downing Street sources say.
The Cabinet Office investigation was launched last month after claims from civil servants and the resignation of Sir Philip Rutnam, the Home Office’s most senior official.
He is suing the Government for constructive dismissal after accusing Ms Patel of ‘swearing and belittling people’.
British Home Secretary Priti Patel, leaves 10 Downing Street in London
The results of the probe are due to be passed to the Prime Minister’s Independent Adviser on Ministers’ Interests Sir Alex Allan within days.
He will decide whether Ms Patel broke rules. However, the final say rests with Mr Johnson, who can overrule Sir Alex.
A Government source said Mr Johnson was ‘very supportive’ of his key ally. Full details of the probe are unlikely to be published in full.
Fans of Ms Patel said there had been a ‘reset’ between her and officials and she is working well with new Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft.
Former permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam during the National Police Chiefs’ Council and Association of Police and Crime Commissioners joint summit, February 2020
They also revealed Home Office relations with the police are the ‘best in years’. Throughout the Covid-19 crisis, Ms Patel is hosting a daily call with police chiefs.
A Home Office source said: ‘Priti has been quietly getting on with the job of ensuring we’re all safe.’