Romeo: Cabinet secretary frontrunner under scrutiny over 2017 leadership inquiry

Dame Antonia Romeo, viewed as the government’s preferred cabinet secretary candidate, was questioned about her management style after a 2017 inquiry into three allegations related to expenses and bullying during her time as consul-general in New York; the investigation concluded there was no case to answer. The Cabinet Office stressed there was only one formal complaint and it was dismissed, while supporters highlight her 25-year record of public service and leadership of multiple departments. Some officials defended her amid criticism, noting the importance of thorough due diligence.