The British government is analyzing a deep reform of the public administration, with layoffs and reduction of agencies, in a plan internally dubbed "Chainsaw Project." The measure would come as a result of the economic crisis that the United Kingdom is going through under the left-wing British government.
The initiative, linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, seeks to improve state efficiency and takes references from the adjustment policies of Argentine President Javier Milei and Elon Musk's approach to public management in the U.S.
A structural adjustment in the state sector
According to The Guardian, the plan includes:
Elimination of state agencies considered unnecessary.
Merger of autonomous agencies within ministries to reduce costs.
Layoffs in public administration and stricter performance evaluations.
Incentives for resignation in cases of low performance.
Keir Starmer estudia un ajuste estatal inspirado en la motosierra de Javier Milei
The government insists that the goal is not "to destroy the State," but to make it more efficient. However, unions and political sectors warn about the impact of the cuts on employment and service provision.
Influence of Milei and Musk on British politics
The name "Chainsaw Project" alludes to Milei's reforms in Argentina, which included a strong fiscal adjustment and reduction of public spending. Additionally, the reference to Musk arises from his appearance with a chainsaw at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), a gesture that reinforced his image as a promoter of radical reforms.
Although the British government has not confirmed direct contacts with Milei, the influence of his agenda is evident. Labour Together, the think tank behind the plan, acknowledged that it seeks to take his "energy, but with a center-left purpose."
Keir Starmer estudia un ajuste estatal inspirado en la motosierra de Javier Milei
A plan with internal resistance
The adjustment contemplates modifications in at least 300 state agencies, including NHS England, the public health agency. It also considers the absorption of Homes England within the Ministry of Housing, which would give the government more direct control over housing policies.
Cabinet Minister Pat McFadden is evaluating the possibility of implementing mandatory layoffs, a change from the traditional voluntary retirement plans or hiring freezes.
The debate over the Chainsaw Project is open in the United Kingdom. While some officials see it as an opportunity to improve public management, others warn about its social consequences. The opposition has demanded more details before the government proceeds with the reform.
