Whatever your view of Brexit, it is clear that these inaccurate attacks are deeply damaging to our public sector workforce and must be refuted. Misrepresentation of the civil service by the politicians they seek to serve is unacceptable and demoralising, especially at a time when public servants are working hard to deliver government policy despite the pay freeze they have endured since 2010.

Garry Graham, Prospect deputy general secretary, said:

“The UK civil service provides high quality, objective advice to government without fear or favour.

“It is vital that we protect civil service independence and impartiality.

“We will not allow the civil service to be used as a punch bag by those seeking to advance their own narrow personal or political interests. The early day motion has already attracted cross-party support, recognising the importance of the civil service and the contribution it makes to our democracy.”

Daniel Zeichner, MP for Cambridge, has tabled an official parliamentary motion calling for the government to recognise the professionalism and impartiality of the civil service. Politicians need to understand that they cannot take their frustrations out on their hard-working constituents. That is why we are encouraging all members to write to their MP to encourage them to sign Early Day Motion 925 and publicly show their support for the civil service.

If you want your MP to stand up for the impartiality and professionalism of the civil service email them here.