Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how many departmental Senior Civil Service away days have taken place in calendar year 2026 to date; in what specific venues; at what cost; and if there was any associated social or team-building activity at public expense.

In calendar year 2026 to date, the Ministry of Justice has held two departmental Senior Civil Service events.

The first event was a Senior Leadership Group (SLG) Connect event for Senior Civil Servants at SCS2 level and above. This was held on 5 February 2026 at the Ministry of Justice headquarters at 102 Petty France, London and focused on the future direction of the Justice system and the role of senior leaders. As the event took place in government premises, there were no venue hire costs. Associated expenditure totalled £6,617.65, comprising facilitation, speakers, and stationery costs.

The second event was an all Senior Civil Service conference held on 12 May 2026 at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre focused on strengthening performance, leadership and culture across the organisation.

Venue hire costs were £23,028. Associated expenditure totalled £10,987.23 and related to speakers, facilitation, and administration. The total cost of the event was therefore £34,015.23.

Both events were business-focused leadership and engagement events designed to support the effective leadership of the Department, provide opportunities for senior leaders to discuss departmental priorities, and support organisational delivery.

No social or team-building activities were funded at public expense as part of either event.

The total cost of the two events was £40,632.88.