Archive · 6 Aug 2025
UK Civil Servants Now Earn More Than Prime Minister
Some civil servants in the UK are now paid more than the Prime Minister.
This is because of raises to keep up with the cost of living and to attract people with special skills, like those in tech and security.
The government changed the rules, letting some civil servants earn even more.
While some people are unhappy about this, the government says it needs to pay these higher salaries to get the best people and protect the country from threats.
The Prime Minister earns less than many of his own advisors.
The number of UK civil servants earning more than the Prime Minister has more than doubled in two years.
Over 400 civil servants now earn more than the Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose salary is approximately £170,000.
Rising salaries are due to inflation-linked adjustments, increased demand for specialized skills, and policy changes by the UK Treasury.
The Treasury increased the salary cap for civil servants, affecting many in the £150,000-£200,000 range.
Critics express concern about the pay raises, while officials say the higher salaries are necessary to attract and retain talent.
- Who
- UK civil servants and the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.
- What
- The number of UK civil servants earning more than the Prime Minister has increased significantly.
- When
- The change happened over the past two years, as of March 2025.
- Where
- United Kingdom.
- Why
- Due to inflation, increased demand for specialized skills and changes in government policies.
Government & Supporters
Critics
Pay Raises
Government & Supporters
Need to attract top talent, especially in cyber security. These skill sets demand competitive salaries.
Critics
Critics believe raises lack transparency and open doors for inflated salaries.
- Prime Minister's Salary
- Approximately £170,000
- Civil Servants earning over £150,000
- 375
- Civil Servants earning over £200,000
- 35
- Increase in high earners
- More than doubled in two years
- New salary cap for civil servants
- £174,000
- Median civil service salary (2025)
- £35,680