ABSTRACT
So when a department initiates a proposal that impacts on other departments’ responsibilities, the existing network will be used to sound out reactions: ‘If we suggested this, what would your likely reaction be?’ If there is no objection or the matter is a minor one-many are-the agreement will be recorded in a letter between officials. But where there are snags, or the issue raises a substantial question of policy, the lead minister will write to all ministers on the Cabinet committee within whose remit it falls, send a copy to the Cabinet Office (which has to keep track of the more significant inter-departmental proposals and draft a decision letter for the chairman) and a copy to No. 10.
