In conversation with Lord Gus O'Donnell

We were delighted to host Lord Gus O'Donnell for an 'In Conversation' event. Gus O'Donnell was Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service from 2005-2011, serving under three Prime Ministers. He was appointed as a life peer in the House of Lords in 2012 where he sits as a crossbencher.

This online event drew on his extensive experience as a senior civil servant and economist, and his work on the place of scientific knowledge and expertise in government. It provides a timely discussion by asking whether the machinery of government in Britain is fit for purpose when it comes to responding to disasters. In assessing both the successes and the failings of the COVID-19 response, we can use these as a lesson for any future civil emergencies.

This 'In Conversation' formed part of our Resilient State programme, a series of events and research outputs that considered how governments can better prepare the state to withstand shocks and crises.

Click below to rewatch the event.